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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
Techniques of Endoscopic Ossiculoplasty
Published on: January 26, 2024
[Medical handicap and otorhinolaryngologic foreign bodies about 4 original cases]
S K Timbo1, M A Keita, K Doumbia-Singare
1Service ORL CHU Gabriel Touré - BP 267 Bamako Mali. sktimbo@yahoo.fr
Abstract:
The multiple variant of aero-digestive foreign bodies' pathology determine many complex aspects with regard to their physiopathology, nature, and their location. The presence of a medical handicap or any particular condition could increase morbidity and expose to major risks. We are reporting here about 4 cases including an esophagus foreign body in a leprosies patient, an esophago-gastric case in a mental disorder patient, and two laryngeal-tracheal-bronchial cases during epileptic episodes. From the rarity of such accidents in an adult to their happening during a loss of consciousness or a delirious state, the clinical history is always missing. The symptoms are atypical and may misguide. The classical penetration syndrome cannot be reported. Only a clinical examination carefully conducted and completed with targeted para clinical examinations can help make early diagnosis. Endoscopy of the Esophagus on one hand, and endoscopy of the trachea and lungs on the other hand were used to extract these foreign bodies.
Insights
Aero-digestive foreign bodies in adults are rare and often present with atypical symptoms, especially in patients with medical handicaps or during altered consciousness. Early diagnosis relies on careful clinical and para-clinical examinations for successful foreign body removal.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Gastroenterology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Aero-digestive foreign bodies (ADFBs) present complex challenges due to varied pathology, location, and patient conditions.
- Underlying medical handicaps or specific conditions can significantly increase morbidity and risks associated with ADFBs.
Observation:
- Four distinct cases of ADFBs in adults are presented: esophageal foreign body in a leprosy patient, esophago-gastric foreign body in a patient with mental disorder, and two laryngeal-tracheal-bronchial foreign bodies during epileptic episodes.
- These cases highlight the rarity of ADFBs in adults, often occurring during states of altered consciousness (e.g., loss of consciousness, delirium).
- Clinical presentations were atypical, lacking the classical penetration syndrome, and patient history was often unavailable.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was challenging due to atypical symptoms and missing clinical history.
- A thorough clinical examination combined with targeted para-clinical investigations proved crucial for early diagnosis.
- Endoscopic procedures, including esophageal and tracheobronchial endoscopy, were successfully employed for foreign body extraction.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the importance of considering ADFBs in adults, particularly those with predisposing conditions or altered mental status.
- Highlights the diagnostic utility of careful clinical assessment and targeted investigations when faced with unusual presentations.
- Reinforces the efficacy of endoscopic interventions for the safe and timely removal of aero-digestive foreign bodies.
