Thoracotomy for Extracting Grass Inflorescence Aspiration: a Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Grass inflorescence aspiration is a rare but serious condition in children.
• The unique shape of grass inflorescence often leads to peripheral airway migration.

Observation:

• A 13-year-old boy presented with symptoms following grass inflorescence aspiration.
• The foreign body migrated to the peripheral airway, causing significant respiratory distress.

Findings:

• Bronchoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, was unsuccessful in removing the grass inflorescence.
• The patient required a more invasive surgical approach, thoracotomy, for foreign body removal.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential complications of grass inflorescence aspiration, including chronic pneumonia and bronchiectasis.
• It underscores the importance of considering surgical intervention when less invasive methods fail in managing airway foreign bodies.