Introduction:

pneumomediastinum is defined as the presence of free air around mediastinal structures. It is a rare and alarming radiological finding in the context of polytraumatized patients and its adequate study allows the prevention of potentially lethal injuries.

Methods:

the case of a 43-year-old male patient admitted in the context of blunt polytrauma is presented. On physical examination, he was found to have subcutaneous emphysema and borderline saturation, with a tomographic finding of pneumomediastinum.

Results:

esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed, which was reported as normal and there was no increase in subcutaneous emphysema during follow-up, classifying the case as secondary to the Macklin effect. Subsequently, the patient was discharged in adequate conditions and without repercussions during his hospital stay.

Conclusions:

pneumomediastinum is a rare but alarming entity that requires knowledge of its causes and study of them in order to prevent potentially lethal lesions.

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