What is subcutaneous emphysema?

Air under the skin: Subcutaneous emphysema is a medical term used to indicate a condition where pockets of air have collected underneath the skin. This most often happens after chest surgery and frequently indicates that there has been an air leak from the lung or airways. It will dissipate or go away when the air leak has healed or is better controlled. This condition is temporary and not lifethreatening.

Air under the skin: Air under the skin that is typically leaking from your lungs, but can also come from your esophagus or the trachea (wind pipe), or it could be due to infection. Either way it can be a serious condition that requires treatment regardless of where the air is originating. You need to see your doctor right away, who will examine you and perform tests to determine the cause and recommend treatment.