Hypodermic needles: an unusual tracheobronchial foreign body

Area of Science:

• Medical Case Reports
• Otolaryngology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Foreign bodies in the upper aerodigestive tract have been documented historically.
• Sharp, penetrating objects pose significant risks, potentially causing perforation of airway and food passages.

Observation:

• The authors report nine recent cases of hypodermic needles found in the tracheobronchial tree.
• These cases highlight a specific type of dangerous foreign body encountered in clinical practice.

Findings:

• Seven out of nine patients with tracheobronchial needles underwent successful endoscopic retrieval.
• No complications were reported following the endoscopic removal procedures.
• The remaining two needles were spontaneously expelled by the patients.

Implications:

• Endoscopic retrieval is an effective and safe method for managing hypodermic needle foreign bodies in the tracheobronchial tree.
• This approach minimizes the risk of acute complications associated with such penetrating injuries.
• Highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and intervention for aerodigestive tract foreign bodies.