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Endoscopy 1990; 22(2): 83-84
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1012800
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Retroperitoneal, Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema as a Complication of Routine Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

A. Girardi, I. Piazza, G. Giunta, G. Pappagallo
  • Servizio di Endoscopia Digestiva, 2° Divisione Medica, Ospedale di San Donà (Venice), Italy
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Publication History

Publication Date:
17 March 2008 (online)

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Summary

Diagnostic endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract is a safe procedure, which, however, is not without complications. We report the rare occurrence of retroperitoneal, mediastinal and subcutaneous emphysema following routine endoscopy, with no obvious evidence of a site of perforation. Possible etiological aspects are discussed. This complication appeared to be a benign clinical condition that was resolved with conservative, non-surgical treatment.

Key words:

Endoscopy, complications - Gastrointestinal tract - Perforation - Retroperitoneal emphysema