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Published on: September 11, 2018

[Treatment and complications of oesophagic foreign bodies]

M González Pena1, M D Martínez Novoa, E Masgoret Palau

  • 1Hospital Universitario Joan XXIII, Tarragona.

Anales Otorrinolaringologicos Ibero-Americanos
|November 30, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study reviewed esophageal foreign bodies (OFB), finding coins and bones most common. While often uncomplicated, OFB ingestion can lead to severe outcomes, including death.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Medicine

Background:

  • Foreign bodies (FB) in the esophagus (OFB) are a common clinical challenge.
  • Effective diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications.

Observation:

  • A retrospective study analyzed 77 cases of suspected OFB ingestion between 1994 and 2002.
  • 83 oesophagoscopies (flexible and rigid) were performed to identify and remove OFBs.

Findings:

  • The upper third of the esophagus was the most frequent site for FB impaction.
  • Dysphagia was the predominant symptom reported by patients.
  • Coins and bones were the most common types of ingested foreign bodies.

Implications:

  • Oesophagoscopy is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool for OFB removal.
  • The surgeon's experience and the nature of the FB influence procedure success.
  • Esophageal foreign body impaction carries a risk of fatal complications and should not be underestimated.

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