VCOM Louisiana Research Day Program Book 2024

Clinical Research

Hunter Currie, OMS-III; Donald Langley, DO, Navneet Sharma, MD VCOM-Louisiana; Green Clinic Health System 32 IATROGENIC BENIGN MUSCULAR EMPHYSEMA OF CERVICAL PARASPINAL MUSCULATURE FOLLOWING A CERVICAL MEDIAL BRANCH RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION UNDER FLUOROSCOPY

Background: Benign Muscular Emphysema (BME) is a rare form of emphysema which may arise from an iatrogenic or traumatic injury. BME can present with perilesional erythema and/or pain and crepitus upon palpation. This condition was first described in the context of Emphysematous Cystitis, by which air within the bladder wall was identified during an autopsy performed by W. Eisenlohr. Since BME presents with such similar symptoms as those emphysematous conditions with a more sinister pathophysiology, like those caused by Clostridium perfringens, a proper history and physical exam is paramount for proper diagnosis. Upon a detailed history and physical exam, an accurate diagnosis can be made without the need for surgical exploration; this is because BME, just as Surgical Emphysema, can be induced by a minor puncture wound which creates a one-way valve mechanism, trapping gas in the muscle tissue. A clinical diagnosis can be confirmed via diagnostic imaging which will demonstrate a collection of air within the muscular tissues. Conclusions: This case demonstrates that BME is a potential complication of procedures involving puncture wounds, such as cervical radiofrequency ablations; it underscores the importance of a detailed history and physical

examination, as well as diagnostic imaging, in identifying this condition. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of effective pain management and follow-up in the treatment of BME. Future research may be beneficial in further elucidating the incidence and management of BME in similar clinical scenarios.

49 2024 Via Research Recognition Day