Pre-vertebral surgical emphysema following functional endoscopic sinus surgery

Abstract

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a widely practiced technique in the UK. This procedure has variable complication rates and can have some serious consequences. We present a case of surgical emphysema of the neck, face and the pre-vertebral space following FESS. Emphysema of the face and neck has been previously reported. However, to our knowledge, emphysema of the pre-vertebral space following FESS has not been documented. Pre-vertebral emphysema following FESS is an unusual and potentially serious complication.