Removal of an Atypical Foreign Body Using Flexible Bronchoscopy Under Local Anesthesia

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Emergency Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Foreign object aspiration is uncommon in adults but can lead to life-threatening complications.
• Patients may present with respiratory distress and purulent secretions, especially after events like seizures.

Observation:

• A 43-year-old patient with asthma and epilepsy presented with worsening respiratory distress and purulent secretions.
• Initial chest X-rays and abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities.
• A bronchoscopy under local anesthesia revealed and enabled the removal of an inhaled foreign object.

Findings:

• Bronchoscopy is a crucial diagnostic and therapeutic tool for suspected foreign object aspiration.
• It is particularly effective when imaging studies like X-rays are inconclusive.
• Successful foreign object removal via bronchoscopy avoids more invasive procedures.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering foreign object aspiration in adults with unexplained respiratory symptoms.
• Emphasizes bronchoscopy as a key intervention for diagnosis and treatment in such cases.
• Suggests that even in the absence of clear radiographic findings, bronchoscopy should be considered for inhaled foreign bodies.