Emphysema Identified in Soft Tissues Following Endodontic Treatment

A 61-year-old male with no significant medical history was referred for follow-up of endodontic treatment and comparison of an apical lesion around #2 with prior scans. The radiologist identified extensive emphysema in the right buccal soft tissues and zygoma, possibly secondary to endodontic treatment. The referring clinician had been unaware of the emphysema. The radiologist noted that this finding may be confused with a dental abscess and can go undetected, and that uncontrolled emphysema can be very painful and potentially dangerous if it spreads.