Removal of nasal foreign bodies in the pediatric population

Nasal foreign bodies requiring removal occur commonly in young children. Different techniques of removal are needed depending on the type of nasal foreign body. A retrospective chart review of a 19-month period identified 60 pediatric patients with nasal foreign bodies evaluated in a pediatric emergency department. Twenty-four different types of foreign bodies were removed; beads, rocks and plastic toys were the most common. Numerous removal techniques were used; forceps and Foley catheter techniques were the most common. Most foreign bodies can be managed with simple equipment and without requiring otolaryngology consultation. Because of the many different nasal foreign bodies found, the physician should be skilled in numerous techniques of removal. Each one of these useful techniques is reviewed.