[Airway obstruction and massive subcutaneous emphysema].

Airway obstruction caused by massive subcutaneous emphysema (MSE) in the chest and neck region is a rare complication to tension pneumothorax. We describe the condition in a 91-year-old male in whom rapidly progressing MSE caused airway obstruction. As a result of progressing airway obstruction acute intubation was performed prior to completion of tube thoracostomy resulting in immediate improvement of the condition. This case demonstrates that MSE can lead to acute airway obstruction. Rapid intubation can in this situation be required to prevent asphyxiation.