Cervical emphysema secondary to pneumomediastinum as a complication of childbirth.

Pneumomediastinum and cervical emphysema usually occur following esophageal or chest trauma. Rarely do they occur as a complication of childbirth, and only approximately 200 such cases have been reported in the literature worldwide. We describe a new case, and we review the clinical picture, pathophysiology, and management of these conditions. In view of the head and neck symptoms of pneumomediastinum and cervical emphysema during labor--which include dyspnea, cough, sore throat, pain on swallowing, and dysphagia--otolaryngologists might be consulted and should therefore be aware of these conditions in order to recognize and treat them.