Foreign body removal

Foreign Body Removal
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Presence of a foreign object in the body
Complications	Infection, tissue damage
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	N/A
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	N/A
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Removal of the foreign body
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with prompt treatment
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Foreign body removal is a medical procedure performed to extract objects that have entered the body and are not naturally present. These objects, known as foreign bodies, can be ingested, inhaled, inserted, or introduced through trauma. The removal process is critical to prevent complications such as infection, obstruction, or tissue damage.

Types of Foreign Bodies

Foreign bodies can be classified based on their location in the body:

Gastrointestinal Foreign Bodies

These are objects that have been swallowed and are located in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Common examples include coins, small toys, and bones.

Airway Foreign Bodies

These are objects that have been inhaled and are located in the trachea or bronchi. Common examples include food particles, small toys, and beads.

Ocular Foreign Bodies

These are objects that have entered the eye. They can be superficial, such as dust or sand, or penetrating, such as metal shards.

Ear and Nasal Foreign Bodies

These are objects inserted into the ear canal or nasal cavity. Common in children, examples include beads, food, and small toys.

Soft Tissue Foreign Bodies

These are objects embedded in the skin or muscle tissue, often due to trauma. Examples include splinters, glass shards, and bullets.

Indications for Removal

Foreign body removal is indicated when:

• The object causes pain or discomfort.
• There is a risk of infection.
• The object is causing obstruction or functional impairment.
• The object is toxic or corrosive.

Techniques for Removal

The technique used for foreign body removal depends on the location and nature of the object.

Endoscopic Removal

Endoscopy is commonly used for gastrointestinal and airway foreign bodies. A flexible tube with a camera and tools is inserted to visualize and remove the object.

Bronchoscopy

This is a specific type of endoscopy used for airway foreign bodies. A bronchoscope is used to access the trachea and bronchi.

Surgical Removal

Surgery may be required for deeply embedded or large foreign bodies. This can involve open surgery or minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy.

Manual Extraction

For easily accessible foreign bodies, such as those in the ear or nose, manual extraction with forceps or suction may be sufficient.

Irrigation

Irrigation with saline or water can be used to flush out foreign bodies from the eye or ear.

Complications

Complications from foreign bodies and their removal can include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Perforation of organs
• Aspiration
• Scarring

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Keeping small objects out of reach of children.
• Using protective eyewear in hazardous environments.
• Educating patients on the risks of inserting objects into body orifices.

Prognosis

The prognosis for foreign body removal is generally good, especially with prompt and appropriate treatment. Delays in removal can lead to complications, but most cases resolve without long-term effects.

See Also

• Endoscopy
• Bronchoscopy
• Surgery
• Emergency medicine