Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema: A Rare Case Report Following Vaginal Delivery

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare clinical condition characterized by the presence of free air in the mediastinum. It is infrequently encountered during pregnancy and childbirth and usually follows a benign course. This report presents the case of a 29-year-old primigravida woman who developed pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema after vaginal delivery, manifesting with chest pain and dyspnea. The patient had a body mass index at the threshold of obesity, and repetitive Valsalva maneuvers during labor were considered contributory. Conservative treatment was initiated, including catheter drainage of subcutaneous emphysema and empirical antibiotic therapy. Clinical symptoms resolved completely within five days, and radiological improvement was achieved within one week.