Retrieval of tracheobronchial foreign bodies by short flexible endoscopy in children

Flexible endoscopy (FE) is frequently used to diagnose tracheobronchial foreign bodies (TBFB). However, it is still controversial for retrieval of TBFB in pediatric field. This study aims at reporting and evaluating our experiences of using short-length FE with a non-invasive ventilation (NIV) technique and intensive care unit (ICU) support in retrieving pediatric TBFB.

A retrospective review of the hospital database and FE videos of pediatric patients aged less than 18 year-old who were diagnosed of TBFB and managed in our hospital over a 17-year period (1999-2015). The demographic data were collected and analyzed. A NIV technique of providing nasopharyngeal oxygen with intermittent nose closure and abdominal compression was routinely performed in procedural sedated patients throughout the whole FE procedures.

Sixty-six consecutive patients with 76 TBFB were enrolled. Among them, 72 (94.7%) TBFB in 64 patients were successfully retrieved at the first attempt of FE immediately after the diagnosis was made. There were 13 iatrogenic TBFB in patients who already had coexisting airway problems. The median age was 16 months (range 1.5 months-17 years) and the median body weight was 10.5 kg (range 3.5-48.5 kg). Seventy (70/72, 97.2%) TBFB were retrieved by short-length FE and among them, 55 procedures (55/72, 76.4%) used FE with no working channel. No significant acute or late adverse effects were noted. The mean retrieval procedural time was 23.6 ± 15.1 min.

Using short-length FE with this NIV technique, appropriate sedation and ICU support is a safe, simple and effective modality for the retrieval of TBFB immediately after confirming the diagnosis in pediatric patients.