Surgical emphysema following third molar extraction in a patient with gilles de la tourette's syndrome

Surgical emphysema is a rare complication of dental surgery, usually associated with the inappropriate use of an air turbine drill. We present a case of extensive subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum and bilateral pneumothorax following surgical removal of a lower third molar tooth. This appears to have arisen due to motor tics associated with Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome. The clinical features and management are outlined and the current literature pertaining to surgical emphysema related to oral surgery is reviewed. CPD/Clinical Relevance: It is important that clinicians are made aware of the potential complications that can occur following surgical removal of teeth and the appropriate management should they arise.

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