Abstract | BACKGROUND: METHODOLOGY: One hundred and sixty-seven patients undergoing chest tube drainage within a 12-month period were evaluated retrospectively. There were 30 reported cases of subcutaneous emphysema (SE). Comparisons were made between those with subcutaneous emphysema and those who did not develop this complication. RESULTS: CONCLUSION:
Subcutaneous emphysema can be spontaneous or traumatic, but is associated with avoidable causes such as inadequate chest tube drainage, particularly due to poor tube placement, anchorage and blockage, and also with side-port migration into the subcutaneous tissue. It is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality, and may indicate the need for urgent chest tube replacement.
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Authors | P M Jones, R D Hewer, H D Wolfenden, P S Thomas |
Journal | Respirology (Carlton, Vic.)
(Respirology)
Vol. 6
Issue 2
Pg. 87-9
(Jun 2001)
ISSN: 1323-7799 [Print] Australia |
PMID | 11422886
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Comparative Study, Journal Article)
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Topics |
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Chest Tubes
(adverse effects)
- Drainage
(methods)
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Mediastinal Diseases
(complications)
- Middle Aged
- Pleural Effusion
(complications)
- Pneumothorax
- Respiration Disorders
(complications)
- Retrospective Studies
- Subcutaneous Emphysema
(etiology, prevention & control)
- Thoracotomy
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