Pediatric Airway Foreign Bodies and Their Management by Rigid Bronchoscopy: How I Experienced

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Pediatric tracheobronchial foreign bodies pose a significant clinical challenge.
• Rigid bronchoscopy is the established treatment, yet it can be daunting for novice surgeons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To educate junior ENT surgeons on managing challenges during rigid bronchoscopy for pediatric airway foreign bodies.
• To present clinical and demographic data of pediatric patients undergoing bronchoscopy.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study of 70 pediatric patients with tracheobronchial foreign bodies from January 2013 to January 2020.
• Rigid bronchoscopies were performed using basic instruments, with challenges and their management meticulously recorded.

Main Results:

• The most common age group affected was 2-6 years, with nuts/legumes being the most frequent foreign bodies.
• Common challenges included bronchoscope insertion difficulties, intraoperative oxygen desaturation, foreign body fragmentation, and forceps impaction.
• Cough and decreased air entry were prevalent symptoms; hyperinflation was a common X-ray finding.

Conclusions:

• Rigid bronchoscopy is a vital, life-saving procedure for pediatric airway foreign bodies.
• Familiarity with basic instruments and understanding common challenges are crucial for young surgeons to manage these cases effectively.