Fascial organization of the neck is quite complex and highly variable between individuals. Fascial layers separate very important structures in the neck, and by this way, they build anatomical walls against spread of infections, although this alignment could lead to spread of infection very easily throughout connected fascial spaces. We tried to discuss the possible anatomical pathways resulting in cervicofacial emphysema with a case.The development of cervicofacial emphysema after dental treatment is a well-known complication especially when using high-speed turbines. A 39-year-old female patient is referred to our private dental clinic with complaints of swelling on her right supraclavicular region with edema of right orbita with absence of pain. In our case, emphysema reaches to supraclavicular region using retropharyngeal space and prevertebral fascia.This case illustrates anatomically how air or other materials, including pathogens or infections, could pass easily from oral cavity into thorax or even abdomen using facial planes.
The purpose of this study was to characterize the anatomy of the genial tubercle using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The morphology and detailed anatomy of the genial tubercle were assessed retrospectively in 201 patients (101 females, 100 males) using CBCT images. The parameters examined were the height (GH) and width (GW) of the genial tubercle, the distance from the lower incisors to the superior border of the tubercle (I-SGT), the distance from the inferior margin of the tubercle to the inferior margin of the mandible (IGM-IBM), and the anterior mandible thickness (AMT). Statistical analysis was performed to assess relationships among these parameters, gender, and orthodontic malocclusion (P < 0.05). The values obtained were GH 7.3-8.7 mm, GW 7.9-9.2 mm, I-SGT 7.1-9.1 mm, IGM-IBM 8.3-10.1 mm, and AMT 14.0-16.2 mm. GH, GW, and I-SGT showed no significant differences between genders (P > 0.05). However, IGM-IBM was larger for class III than for class I and class II male patients, and larger than for class I female patients. AMT in class III patients was greater than in class I and II patients (P < 0.05). The use of CBCT, which employs less radiation, is important for dental professionals, especially those performing surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), in order to avoid possible surgical complications.