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

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.

Keywords: cardiac tamponade; extrapericardial pneumomediastinum; macklin effect; minimally invasive technique; nonsurgical treatment; subxiphoid chest tube insertion; traumatic pneumomediastinum.