Iatrogenic surgical emphysema and pneumomediastinum in a case of emergency lower segment caesarean section

Air, Air Everywhere!

“…What is the immediate management? Ideally, such as in this case, an emergency surgical chest drain should be inserted concomitantly so as not to exacerbate the pneumothorax and cause tensioning as well as further haemodynamic instability (Goswami & Sarangi, 2016). The primary teaching point is the significant consequences that can be caused by a GEB, and while a useful instrument common to anesthetic practice, it should be used cautiously and safely.…”

Air, Air Everywhere!

“…Ideally, an emergency surgical chest drain is inserted concomitantly to prevent exacerbation of the pneumothorax and cause tensioning that may precipitate further hemodynamic instability. 1 The Cardiothoracic Department's advice was for conservative management with close monitoring and reducing ventilatory pressures, with any further deterioration requiring consideration for a mediastinotomy with drainage of air. The primary teaching point is the significant consequences that can be caused by a GEB,…”