Lethal Intracranial Complication Following Air Insufflation With A Pneumatic Otoscope

Abstract

Another case is reported of lethal intracranial complication following retrograde inflation through the external meatus. The cause of death was probably emphysematous detachment of the dura over the tegmen tympani and compression of the internal carotid artery. Insufflation of the middle ear should be carried out with extreme care in cases of secretory otitis media. Hyperbar oxygenation could perhaps be of value in a case like this.