Foreign body removal by flexible bronchoscopy using retrieval basket in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Interventional Pulmonology
• Pediatric Otolaryngology

Background:

• Airway foreign body aspiration is a frequent pediatric emergency.
• Prompt and safe removal is crucial to prevent complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and efficacy of flexible bronchoscopy with a retrieval basket for foreign body removal in children.
• To evaluate the outcomes and complication rates of this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of pediatric patients undergoing flexible bronchoscopy for airway foreign body removal.
• Data collected from February 2014 to October 2017 at a tertiary hospital.
• Review of medical records for patient demographics, foreign body characteristics, procedural success, and complications.

Main Results:

• 20 children (median age 16 months, 60% male) underwent the procedure.
• Common foreign bodies included organic (80%) and inorganic (20%) materials.
• Successful removal was achieved in 90% of cases, with only mild laryngeal edema reported as a complication.

Conclusions:

• Flexible bronchoscopic foreign body extraction using a retrieval basket is a safe and effective method in children.
• The procedure is associated with a high success rate and minimal complications.
• This technique offers a valuable minimally invasive option for pediatric airway foreign bodies.