Subxiphoid Chest Tube Insertion for Extrapericardial Pneumomediastinum: A Simple and Effective Nonsurgical Treatment

TL;DR

A case study shows subxiphoid chest tube insertion effectively treats extrapericardial pneumomediastinum caused by trauma.

Contribution

Demonstrates a nonsurgical, effective treatment for traumatic extrapericardial pneumomediastinum using subxiphoid chest tube insertion.

Findings

Subxiphoid chest tube insertion successfully resolved traumatic extrapericardial pneumomediastinum.

The treatment provided effective and non-surgical relief without complications.

The case highlights a practical approach for managing severe EPM when conservative methods fail.

Abstract

Extrapericardial pneumomediastinum (EPM) is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of air in the mediastinum outside the pericardial sac. It may present with symptoms such as dysphonia, shortness of breath, and neck or chest pain; however, it is often asymptomatic. In the absence of a history of trauma or foreign body aspiration, treatment is usually supportive. The condition is generally benign and self-limiting. While conservative management is often satisfactory, more invasive interventions may be required in severe cases. We report a case of EPM secondary to trauma that was successfully treated with subxiphoid chest tube placement.

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