Case Report
Year: 2023 | Month: April | Volume: 13 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 50-5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20230407
Unusual Presentation of Pneumopericardium, Pneumomediastinum, and Pneumothorax
Georges N Mezher1, Myriam A. Challita2, Marc M. Ghabach3
1Georges N. Mezher, MD: Instructor, Department of Anesthesia and Reanimation, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University. Anesthesiologist, Rosary Sisters Hospital. Beirut, Lebanon
2Myriam A. Challita, MD: Anesthesia and Reanimation Resident, Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences
3Marc M. Ghabach: Med IV, Medical School, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
Corresponding Author: Georges N Mezher
ABSTRACT
A 26-year-old male with medical history of cocaine abuse complained of chest pain and dyspnea after having orthopedic surgery under spinal anesthesia. Physical exam demonstrated normal vital signs and subcutaneous emphysema in the neck. Chest X-ray revealed the presence of pneumomediastinum. Chest CT-scan confirmed the presence of pneumopericardium and subcutaneous emphysema. The patient managed conservatively was kept 48 hours in the intensive care unit. He was discharged after a repeated ameliorated chest X-ray.
Pneumopericardium, pneumomediastinum, and pneumothorax are rare conditions reported after cocaine use. A conservative approach is acceptable, as current literature suggests that this condition is usually self-limiting.
Key words: pneumopericardium, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, cocaine abuse, spinal anesthesia.