Unusual Retrieval of an Ingested Metallic Foreign Body Using a Magnetic Bridle During Microlaryngoscopy: A Case...

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Devices
• Foreign Body Retrieval

Background:

• Ingested metallic foreign bodies in the aerodigestive tract present retrieval challenges, especially when visualization fails.
• Radiographic confirmation of foreign bodies does not guarantee successful endoscopic or surgical removal.
• This case highlights the difficulties in localizing and removing radiopaque foreign bodies in the upper aerodigestive tract.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel technique for localizing and retrieving radiopaque metallic foreign bodies in the aerodigestive tract.
• To present the successful use of a magnetic-tipped bridle during microlaryngoscopy for foreign body removal.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of magnetic bridle-assisted microlaryngoscopy.

Main Methods:

• A 45-year-old female patient with a radiopaque foreign body in the upper aerodigestive tract, unvisualized by initial endoscopy.
• Utilization of a nasogastric (NG) tube with a distal magnet advanced transorally during microlaryngoscopy under general anesthesia.
• Localization via magnetic attraction to the laryngeal sidewall followed by atraumatic retrieval.

Main Results:

• The magnetic-tipped bridle successfully localized the metallic foreign body.
• Atraumatic retrieval of the 2 cm linear foreign body was achieved without complications.
• The patient was discharged the following day with no sequelae.

Conclusions:

• Magnetic bridle-assisted microlaryngoscopy is a safe and innovative adjunct for retrieving radiopaque metallic foreign bodies.
• This technique is effective for foreign bodies that are difficult to visualize directly.
• The method avoids the need for more invasive procedures like rigid endoscopy or open surgery, repurposing standard NG tools effectively.