[Delayed Lung Resection for Retrieval of an Aspirated Dental Crown:Report of a Case]

A 76-year-old man presented after aspiration of a crown during dental treatment. He had no immediate symptoms;therefore, the crown was not thoroughly examined at the time of the event. The patient developed high fever and chest pain and sought medical attention, 9 months later. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed the dental crown located in the left B10 bronchus. The patient was diagnosed with pyothorax and obstructive pneumonia and was referred to our hospital for surgical resection. We attempted partial lung resection;however, pleurisy prevented adequate palpation. Therefore, we used X-ray fluoroscopy to complete the surgery. This case report highlights the challenges associated with detection of long-standing foreign bodies in the airway. Careful preparation, including X-ray fluoroscopy and preoperative bronchoscopy, is essential for successful management.