Abstract
We report a case of subcutaneous emphysema of the neck following nasotracheal intubation. The patient, a woman in her 40s, was scheduled for general anesthesia and nasotracheal intubation for a tooth extraction. The tracheal tube was initially inserted through the right nostril; however, this attempt failed, resulting in swelling under the skin of the right anterior neck. Intubation was subsequently achieved via the left nostril, and the surgery proceeded. Postoperative computed tomography revealed subcutaneous emphysema in the neck as a result of the tube inadvertently passing through the posterior pharynx. Consequently, the patient required prolonged hospitalization with dietary restrictions. We present this rare complication of nasopharyngeal intubation, along with a discussion of the relevant literature, including preventive measures for similar cases.
