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Management of oesophageal foreign bodies in children

A F Uba1, A O Sowande, Y B Amusa

  • 1Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, PMB 2076 Jos, Nigeria.

East African Medical Journal
|March 18, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Retained oesophageal foreign bodies are a common hazard in children. Prompt endoscopic removal is crucial for successful outcomes, despite potential complications like perforation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Otolaryngology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Retained oesophageal foreign bodies pose a significant health risk to children.
  • Accurate diagnosis and timely intervention are critical for managing this pediatric emergency.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the management patterns and outcomes of children with retained oesophageal foreign bodies.
  • To identify common foreign body types, locations, and associated complications.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study was conducted involving 108 pediatric patients (0-14 years).
  • Foreign bodies were removed endoscopically under general anesthesia using laryngoscopy or rigid esophagoscopy.

Main Results:

  • Coins were the most frequent foreign bodies (79.6%), primarily affecting children aged 1-5 years.
  • Most patients presented within four days, with drooling and dysphagia as primary symptoms.
  • Complications included esophageal perforations (3.7%) and lacerations (15%).

Conclusions:

  • Retained oesophageal foreign bodies represent a frequent pediatric health concern.
  • Early diagnosis and skilled, prompt endoscopic removal are essential for favorable outcomes.
Abstract

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