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Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery

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Open Access 01-12-2008 | Research article

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum: diagnostic and therapeutic interventions

Authors: Faisal Al-Mufarrej, Jehangir Badar, Farid Gharagozloo, Barbara Tempesta, Eric Strother, Marc Margolis

Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2008

Abstract

Objectives

The objective of this case series is to review our experience with spontaneous pneumomediastinum, review the available literature, and refine the current clinical approach to this uncommon condition.

Methods

The case notes of all patients admitted to the George Washington University Medical Center with spontaneous pneumomediastinum from April 2005 to June 2008 were retrospectively reviewed, indentifying seventeen patients on whom various data was collected and analyzed.

Results

The typical patient is a young man. The commonest presenting complaint is chest pain. Odynophagia and subcutaneous emphysema are common. Leucocytosis is uncommon. The need for swallow studies, antibiotics, and prolonged hospitalization is uncommon. Most patients have no recurrences or sequelae on long-term follow-up.

Conclusion

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is an uncommon, self-limiting condition. Due to concerns for the integrity of the aero-digestive tract, the finding of spontaneous pneumomediastinum usually results in unnecessary radiological investigations, dietary restriction and antibiotic administration with prolonged hospitalization.

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Title: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum: diagnostic and therapeutic interventions
Authors: Faisal Al-Mufarrej
Jehangir Badar
Farid Gharagozloo
Barbara Tempesta
Eric Strother
Marc Margolis
Publication date: 01-12-2008
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery / Issue 1/2008
Electronic ISSN: 1749-8090
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-8090-3-59

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum: diagnostic and therapeutic interventions

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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