Oesophageal Foreign Bodies: An Experience with Rigid Oesophagoscopy in a Developing Country

Abstract

Background: This study assessed the procedure of rigid oesophagoscopy for the management of impacted oesophageal FBs.

Methods: A retrospective study of patients between January 2007 and December 2013

Results: There were total of 42 patients consisting of 30 (71.4%) males with male: female ratio 2.5: 1. Majorities (40.5%) were children and over 79% of the patients presented within the first 12 hours. About 60% of the FBs impacted at the upper oesophagus and about 43% had clear radio opaque findings on plain x-ray. Rigid oesophagoscopy and FB removal was successful in 90.5%. Minor complications occurred in 54% and the only case of mortality was due to complication from mismanagement by non Otolaryngologist before referral for specialist care.

Conclusion: Oesophageal foreign bodies are common in our locality with majority of impaction occurring in the upper third of the oesophagus. The management of impacted oesophageal FBs with rigid oesophagoscopy still remains an effective and safe procedure. Prevention, high index of suspicion, early presentation and prompt skillful removal are necessary for a satisfactory outcome

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