Migrating oesophageal foreign body--an unusual case

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Gastroenterology
• Radiology

Background:

• Ingested foreign bodies typically remain within the gastrointestinal lumen.
• Extraluminal migration of esophageal foreign bodies is a rare but serious complication.
• Untreated extraluminal foreign bodies can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions.

Observation:

• A case is presented of a metallic foreign body in the esophagus that migrated extraluminally.
• Computed tomography (CT) scans with fine cuts were instrumental in accurately localizing the foreign body.
• Surgical access for removal necessitated a hemithyroidectomy.

Findings:

• Successful retrieval of the extraluminally migrated metallic foreign body.
• Demonstration of the utility of high-resolution CT in diagnosing rare foreign body presentations.
• Highlighting the need for surgical intervention in extraluminal esophageal foreign bodies.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the importance of considering extraluminal migration in cases of suspected esophageal foreign bodies.
• Underscores the critical role of advanced imaging in surgical planning for rare esophageal pathologies.
• Provides insights into the surgical management strategies for complex extraluminal foreign body cases.