Descending necrotizing mediastinitis: a complication of dental implant surgery.
BACKGROUND: The placement of osseointegrated dental implants is considered a minimally invasive procedure with a low complication rate. Reported complications include local trauma to neurovascular structures, mandible fractures, sinusitis, and localized gingivitis. Major life-threatening complications are extremely rare. Severe infection has not been reported in a review of the English literature. METHOD: Case study. RESULTS: We present a case of life-threatening deep neck space infection resulting in descending necrotizing mediastinitis following osseointegrated dental implant placement. Treatment included intravenous antibiotics, aggressive neck debridement, and removal of the infected dental implants. CONCLUSION: Severe infection can result from the placement of dental implants. Principles of treatment include antibiotics, surgical drainage and debridement, and careful assessment and removal of the involved implants.