Perioperative subcutaneous emphysema: review of differential diagnosis, complications, management, and anesthetic implications.

Subcutaneous emphysema is not an uncommon anesthetic complication, but it often occurs unexpectedly. It is usually self-limited, but mediastinitis can occur with mortality as high as 50%. A case of subcutaneous emphysema occurring during dental surgery is reported here. The diagnosis, management, complications, and pathogenesis are discussed.