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Foreign bodies in the gastro-intestinal tract
1Department of Surgery, Tel Aviv University Sackler School of Medicine, Israel.
Summary
Gastrointestinal foreign bodies require prompt removal, especially in the esophagus, to prevent perforation. While many pass naturally, retained objects necessitate intervention, with psychiatric evaluation for intentional ingestion or rectal insertion.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract are a common cause of admission.
- Management strategies vary depending on the location and type of foreign body.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, types, and management of gastrointestinal foreign bodies.
- To evaluate the outcomes and complications associated with foreign body ingestion and retention.
- To highlight the importance of timely intervention and psychiatric assessment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 70 patients admitted with gastrointestinal foreign bodies between 1971 and 1990.
- Categorization of foreign bodies by location (pharynx, esophagus, stomach, intestines, rectum).
- Analysis of patient demographics, foreign body types, and management outcomes.
Main Results:
- 70 patients (35 children, 35 adults) were treated for gastrointestinal foreign bodies.
- Esophageal foreign bodies (22 cases) had a low perforation rate (1), while intestinal foreign bodies (27 cases) had a higher rate (14).
- Common items included coins, toys, pins, needles, chicken/fish bones, and sharp objects; 15 foreign bodies were passed uneventfully.
Conclusions:
- Foreign bodies in the esophagus require immediate removal to prevent obstruction and perforation.
- While many ingested foreign bodies pass spontaneously, retained items may require endoscopic or surgical intervention.
- Intentional foreign body ingestion or rectal insertion warrants psychiatric evaluation.