Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum after tonsillectomy.

Many patients and their families regard tonsillectomy as a minor operation because it is performed so commonly. However, although tonsillectomy is indeed a relatively safe surgical procedure, in extremely rare cases, it can be complicated by subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. Although these complications resolve spontaneously in most cases, a few conclude in tension pneumothorax and other fatal complications. The mechanism by which subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum develop after tonsillectomy is poorly understood. We experienced a case in which subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and a deep defect in the tonsillar fossa were observed. The passage of air was shown by radiology and histopathology. Consequently, the case is reported here.