A Prospective Clinical Study of Foreign Bodies in Ear, Nose and Upper Aerodigestive Tract - Our Experience

A foreign body is an object foreign to location where it found. Foreign body (FB) in ear, nose and aerodigestive tract are common problem seen in children and adults. This study aims to know foreign bodies in terms of type, age, site, gender distribution and method of removal. This prospective study was performed in tertiary care centre from 2020-2022. A total 185 patients with foreign bodies in ear, nose and aero digestive tract who were presented to casualty and OPD were included in study. Their demographic data, age of presentation, clinical presentation, foreign bodies types, site of lodgement and management were included in study. Out of 185 patients, 99 were male [53.51%], 86 were female [46.48%]. FB were found to be maximum in ear (44.32%) followed by nose (37.29%), aerodigestive tract (18.37%). The foreign bodies were removed with or without local anaesthesia in 155 patients and under general anaesthesia in only 30 patients. In some patient foreign bodies like coin, small ear ring was expelled out spontaneously. Left Ear FB (51.21%) was seen most commonly than right ear [45.12%] & both ears (3.67%). Right Side of nasal cavity was frequently involved (69.56%) than left nasal cavity [28.99%] & in both nasal cavities (1.45%). In aerodigestive tract, FB most commonly seen at cricopharynx level [38.23%]. The early childhood group had highest number of patients. Foreign bodies in ENT can be easy as well as difficult at times. Thorough and timely clinical and radiological examination helps in diagnosing and subsequent timely intervention.