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Pneumothorax following rigid bronchoscopy for foreign body removal in a child: A case report
Makram Tbini1, Abdelmajid Hafyene2, Chaima Ben Ammar1
1ENT Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Boulevard du 9-Avril 1938, 1006 Tunis, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis el Manar, Tunisia.
Insights
Rigid bronchoscopy can cause fatal pneumothorax in children with airway foreign bodies. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for survival after this rare complication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Rigid bronchoscopy is a primary treatment for pediatric airway foreign bodies.
- This procedure carries risks, including potentially fatal complications like pneumothorax.
Observation:
- A 20-month-old child presented with a foreign body (peanut) requiring rigid bronchoscopy.
- Post-procedure, the child developed a pre-arrest state with signs of pneumothorax.
Findings:
- Pneumothorax was diagnosed and treated with aspiration.
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was administered, and the child recovered within 3 days.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but serious complication of pediatric rigid bronchoscopy.
- Emphasizes the critical need for rapid recognition and intervention for pneumothorax post-procedure.
Introduction:
Rigid bronchoscopy is an effective tool for the management of pediatric airway foreign bodies. However, it is not exempt from complications that can be fatal, such as pneumothorax.
Case Presentation:
A 20-month-old child was admitted to our department after inhaling a foreign body (peanut). Immediately after removal of this foreign body, the child presented with a pre-arrest state with right auscultatory silence. Pneumothorax was suspected and aspirated, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed. After 3 days in the intensive care unit (ICU), the child was discharged.
Clinical Discussion:
Inhalation of foreign bodies is frequent during the first 3 years of life. Its management relies on rigid bronchoscopy. However, this procedure is not devoid of risks, which can be fatal.
Conclusion:
Our case illustrates a rare complication of rigid bronchoscopy in pediatric population and highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and management.
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