surgical emphysema


sur·gi·cal em·phy·se·ma

subcutaneous emphysema from gas trapped in the tissues by an operation or injury, frequently seen after carbon dioxide insufflation during laproscopic procedures.

sur·gi·cal em·phy·se·ma

(sŭr'ji-kăl em'fi-sē'mă) Subcutaneous emphysema from air trapped in the tissues by an operation or injury.

surgical emphysema

Air or gas in the tissues, most commonly in the neck as a result of leakage from a lung, injury to the OESOPHAGUS or fracture of the wall of one of the nasal SINUSES. There is a characteristic crackling effect when the affected area is pressed with the fingers. Surgical emphysema is not, in itself, harmful and the air soon absorbs if further leakage from the source is prevented.