TITLE:
Subcutaneous Emphysema Caused by Sodium Hypochlorite plus RC-Prep
AUTHORS:
Masayuki Tokuda, Yoshiko Kawakami, Yoko Morimoto-Yamashita, Mitsuo Torii
KEYWORDS:
Subcutaneous Emphysema, Hypochlorite, RC-Prep, Endodontic Treatment
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Stomatology,
Vol.4 No.12,
December
25,
2014
ABSTRACT: Introduction: “RC-Prep”, a chemo-mechanical preparation for root canals, includes EDTA and urea peroxide as ingredients. For lubrication and its chelating effect, RC-Prep is useful as an adjunct in root canal enlargement. Furthermore, its cleaning action, due to its foaming properties in combi-nation with sodium hypochlorite, can be useful in root canal treatment in many situations. Methods: In a case of upper gingiva swelling, we used sodium hypochlorite with RC-Prep in the treatment of an infected root canal of the left maxillary premolar at the first visit. Within 2 min after use, the patient’s face became swollen. We kept the root canal open, and conducted a CT scan to investigate. Results: We diagnosed subcutaneous emphysema and prescribed 1 week of pain killers and antibiotics. The pain and swelling in the face finally resolved at 11 days after the incident. Conclusions: The cause of the emphysema was considered to have been the use of a sodium hypo-chlorite solution after using RC-Prep for an opened root apex.