Endoscopic removal of an embedded chicken bone in the esophagus: A case report

Sharp foreign body ingestion can cause gastrointestinal tract mucosa injury and requires proper endoscopic removal. Typically, protective devices are used to reduce mucosal damage. This case presents an alternative approach for the endoscopic removal of a large, irregular, and sharp foreign body (chicken bone) when traditional protective devices are inadequate, thus contributing to the management of such ingestions.

A 57-year-old male presented with a history of swallowing an irregular and sharp-pointed chicken bone. Emergent endoscopy showed it was tightly embedded in the esophageal wall, with minor bleeding. The chicken bone was grasped and moved cautiously using a foreign forceps. It was loosened after repeated attempts but could not pass through the pharynx. Considering possible mucosal damage, it was carefully pushed into the stomach cavity and then wrapped in a condom. The chicken bone was retrieved uneventfully by grasping the open edge of the condom with foreign forceps. No additional damage was found, except for primary esophageal injuries caused by the embedded chicken bone. The patient was discharged on the following day. Our experience demonstrated that condoms can be an alternative as a protective device under such conditions.

Condoms can serve as an alternative when traditional protective devices are unsuitable. Because of its smooth and oily nature, it can provide mucosal protection and lubrication during endoscopic removal.