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Published on: August 23, 2018
Do foreign bodies migrate through the body towards the heart?
Rui Celso Martins Mamede1, Fabiana do Amaral, Daniel Garcia Raimundo
1Department of Ophthalmology, HCFMRP-USP. rcmmamed@fmrp.usp.br
Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
|July 4, 2009
Summary
Foreign bodies (FB) can migrate within the body, but not towards the heart. Imaging studies are crucial for prolonged FB ingestion cases before endoscopy.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Radiology
- Medical Case Studies on Foreign Body Migration
Background:
- The common saying 'foreign bodies walk to the heart' is a misconception.
- Mucosal fixation of foreign bodies (FB) can initiate migration pathways.
Observation:
- Analysis of four cases of extra-lumen migration from a 3,000 FB sample over 40 years.
- Cases involved fish bones and cartilage migrating from the pharynx or esophagus.
- Migration routes included the aorta, neck, prevertebral fascia, and submandibular region.
Findings:
- Foreign bodies can migrate through various body tissues, contrary to popular belief.
- Migration mechanisms and associated risks were analyzed using clinical, radiological, and endoscopic data.
- Diagnosis of FB migration requires a comprehensive approach including imaging.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for advanced imaging studies in cases of suspected prolonged foreign body ingestion.
- Highlights that endoscopic examination should be preceded by imaging to avoid potential complications.
- Provides a clearer understanding of foreign body migration dynamics and diagnostic strategies.
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