Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum and Emergency Surgery: A Case Report

Pneumomediastinum is a rare condition that is characterized as free air in the mediastinal space. It may develop spontaneously or as a result of traumatic injuries to the chest and neck.1 Anesthesia professionals must understand the distinction between the two etiologies and be prepared to manage potential complications prior to induction of anesthesia. Expanding a pneumomediastinum into a tension pneumothorax or cardiac tamponade requires a thorough discussion within the surgical team.1 Chest tube placement and pericardiocentesis must be anticipated.1 This case reports describes the anesthetic management of a patient presenting for emergency surgery with a pneumomediastinum of unknown origin.