Extensive Cervicomediastinal Emphysema from Mastoid Injury. Issue 4 (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ahmed, Yasmina; Ng, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Craniomaxillofacial trauma & reconstruction. Volume 9:Issue 4(2016)
• Page Start: 338
• Page End: 341
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: traumatic CME -- cervical emphysema -- mediastinal emphysema -- mastoid fracture -- baseball injury; Face -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Face -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Maxilla -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Maxilla -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Face -- Surgery; Face -- Wounds and injuries; Maxilla -- Surgery; Maxilla -- Wounds and injuries; Maxillofacial Injuries -- Periodicals; Craniocerebral Trauma -- Periodicals; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures -- methods -- Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.522
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1582460
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1943-3875

Abstract

Traumatic cervicomediastinal emphysema resulting from isolated head trauma is a rare occurrence. Herein, we describe a patient who sustained a closed mastoid injury after being struck with a batted baseball, resulting in acute extensive cervicomediastinal emphysema. Upon further assessment, the patient's aerodigestive tract was determined to have remained intact and unaffected by the injury. The source of soft-tissue air originated from the fractured mastoid. This case demonstrates the protective properties of a well-pneumatized mastoid. Furthermore, we elucidate the pathway by which the mastoid air entered and spread into the surrounding soft tissues of the neck and into the chest.