What is subcutaneous emphysema?
subcutaneous emphysema concerns the presence of air or gas inside the skin tissue layer. The condition usually occurs when air escapes to lungs or airways through a tear or puncture. The person may notice the swelling in the throat and chest and tangible bubbles that make a crackling noise when they are pushed against. In most cases, the subcutaneous emphysema itself is not painful and does not cause the main complications. The basic cause is usually the main interest of doctors and treatment with it is necessary to prevent serious heart or respiratory problems.
Many different diseases and injuries can result in subcutaneous emphysema. Many cases are caused by a trauma on the chest or neck. Shooting, knife wound or dull force from a fall or car accident can damage the lungs or trachea. Severe lung infections, chronic diseases and cancer can weaken pulmonary tissue lining and lead to lung collapse. Occasionally, angry surgery or incorrectly placed thoracic tube can cause an airborne to the chest cavity.
subcutaneous emphysema caused by penetration or dull trauma is usually not the main problem of healthcare workers. The condition may not be recorded or solved until the measures to rescue are taken to stop the bleeding or re -inflated the damaged lungs. After the patient is stable, doctors can look for signs of subcutaneous emphysema.
The most common symptoms include swelling of light, chest and neck pain and breathing problems. The crackling bubbles can usually be felt, moved and broken under the skin. X -rays of chest and computer tomographic scanning can be carried out for the purpose of determining the quantity and accurate placement of air pockets.
Most cases of subcutaneous emphysema may not be treated directly. Air bubbles tend to distract themselves for several hours if problems with lungs and airways have already been repaired.If small NGOsThe air is persisted, the doctor may decide to make several small, deep cuts into the skin to allow gas leakage. Catheters can be used to pump large amounts of air from the chest cavity and the surrounding tissue of the skin.
For further treatment if there is enough remaining air to excessive pressure on the trachea or lungs. The chest tube can be inserted to move from the chest cavity. The patient may need to wear an oxygen mask or receive the respiratory tube while the subsequent repairs are carried out in the lungs and airways.