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Esophageal foreign bodies: a Jordanian experience
Tareq Mahafza1, Anwar Batieha, Munther Suboh
1Department of Otolaryngology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, PO Box 3030, Irbid, Jordan. mahafza@just.edu.jo
Summary
This study found that esophageal foreign bodies (FB) in Jordan, particularly coins in children and bones in adults, follow similar patterns to those reported globally. The common symptoms and removal techniques align with international findings.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Esophageal foreign bodies (FB) are a common pediatric emergency.
- Understanding demographic and etiological patterns is crucial for prevention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of esophageal foreign bodies in Jordan.
- To compare these findings with international data on esophageal FB.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 527 patients admitted with esophageal FB over 9 years (1992-2000).
- Data collected included patient demographics, FB type and location, symptoms, removal techniques, and complications.
- Hospitals involved: Princess Basma and Al-Bashir referral hospitals.
Main Results:
- The study included 527 patients; 53% were male, 47% female, with 77% under 10 years old.
- Coins were the most common FB in children (68%), while bones were prevalent in adults (8%).
- Most FBs (89%) were lodged at the cricopharyngeal muscle; common symptoms included drooling (72%), dysphagia (71%), and vomiting (24%).
- Removal utilized rigid esophagoscopy and Magill forceps, with a 2% complication rate (perforation, mediastinitis, stenosis, erosions).
Conclusions:
- The pattern of esophageal foreign bodies in Jordan is consistent with international trends.
- This suggests similar etiological factors and risk profiles globally.