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Subcutaneous Emphysema 950.e3

VetBooks.ir Diseases and Disorders

SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA External appearance of a domestic long-
haired cat with marked subcutaneous emphysema. Note severe distention of the
subcutaneous space, manifesting with a diffusely bloated appearance over the
torso but not the head.
SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA Radiograph shows severe subcutaneous
emphysema, apparent as gas lucencies throughout the subcutis.

PROGNOSIS & OUTCOME emphysema. Analgesic treatment should ADDITIONAL SUGGESTED
be initiated. READINGS
• In animals that do not develop respiratory • Avoid subcutaneous drug administration Bhandal J, et al: Tracheal rupture in a cat: diagnosis
distress, the prognosis is good, and spontane- in patients with subcutaneous emphysema by computed tomography. Can Vet J 49:595-597,
ous recovery will occur in 3-15 days. (variable absorption). 2008.
• Subcutaneous emphysema may be found in Hardie EM, et al: Tracheal rupture in cats: 16 cases
patients that suffer from concurrent more Technician Tips (1983-1998). J Am Vet Med Assoc 214(4):508-512,
serious disease or injury (e.g., pneumotho- • Prevent overinflation of endotracheal cuffs. 1999.
rax). Prognosis largely depends on the ability • Perform cautious, appropriate jugular
to manage those conditions successfully. venipuncture, especially in cats. RELATED CLIENT EDUCATION
• Disconnect endotracheal tubes before SHEETS
PEARLS & CONSIDERATIONS repositioning of the animal’s head or body.
Consent to Perform Radiography
Comments SUGGESTED READING Consent to Perform Thoracocentesis
• Most animals will recover with supportive Gornik K, et al: Orbital and subcutaneous emphysema
care and will not require surgery. following enucleation and respiratory distress in a AUTHOR: Hans Gelens, DVM, MSc, DACVIM
• Sloughing of the skin is not a recognized Japanese Chin. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 51(6):413- EDITOR: Benjamin M. Brainard, VMD, DACVAA,
complication of subcutaneous emphysema. 418, 2015. DACVECC
• Some animals show discomfort and pain
during the presence of subcutaneous

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