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Tracheobronchial foreign bodies in relation to feeding practices in young children
R Indudharan1, S P Ram, D S Sidek
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia. dharan@kb.usm.my
Insights
Tracheobronchial foreign bodies are a major cause of accidental death in young children. Prompt bronchoscopic intervention is crucial for successful treatment and preventing complications in pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Tracheobronchial foreign bodies (TFB) are a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in young children.
- Accidental ingestion and aspiration of foreign objects pose a critical risk, particularly in children under four years of age.
Observation:
- This report details three cases of TFB in children under two years old.
- One case involved an unsuspected foreign body, while the other two were linked to food consumption.
- The foreign bodies identified were likely food-related, including bones and hard chitinous shells.
Findings:
- All three pediatric patients underwent successful bronchoscopic intervention.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment led to complete recovery without any long-term adverse effects (sequelae).
Implications:
- Early recognition and management of TFB are vital for positive outcomes in infants and toddlers.
- Recommendations include avoiding the introduction of foods with bones or hard shells to young children to prevent aspiration incidents.
Abstract:
Tracheobronchial foreign bodies, which are common in children, are a leading cause of accidental deaths in children under four years of age. Three cases of tracheobronchial foreign bodies in children less than two years old are described. One of the foreign bodies was unsuspected; the other two were probably related to food habits. All three cases improved without sequelae following prompt bronchoscopic intervention. Young children should not be given food containing bones or hard chitinous shells.