Introduction

Subcutaneous emphysema is defined as the abnormal presence of air or gas in the body tissues or tissue spaces. In dentistry, however, subcutaneous emphysema is most often a consequence of compressed air being forced into the subcutaneous tissues through the intra-oral barrier. Most often the air comes from the slow hand-piece, the turbine and the dental air syringe, although recent reports have surfaced of emphysema being caused by air coming from an air abrasion tool, CO2 laser or a cryotherapy device.

Case description

A case of air emphysema following by drying the cavity with dental syringe. Discussion of prophylactic and treatment of air emphysema.

Conclusions

Subcutaneous emphysema is one of the less common complications that may occur during the treatment of carious lesions. It is usually limited to moderate swelling of soft tissues, which due to slow regression be-comes an unpleasant complication for the patient. The air that has entered to the subcutaneous tissue carries the risk of causing an infection like cellulitis or necrosis of fascial and therefore requires the use of antibiotic therapy. Although emphysema is a medical complication, often harmless, it should be remembered that there is always a risk of serious consequences requiring specialized treatment. Prompt and appropriate diagnosis enables effective treatment of emphysema.