Author(s)
Weitao Wang
Alexis M Strohl
Affiliation(s)
University of Rochester
Abstract:
Objective: To describe a novel and safe use of existing instrumentation in the removal of select foreign bodies in the upper aerodigestive tract to minimize healthcare costs.Methods: Retrospective review of case series involving visualized upper aerodigestive tract foreign bodies and three cases of foreign bodies lodged in the base of tongue were identified via flexible laryngoscopy and extracted under local anesthesia from 2016-2018. Success rates and complications including failure to extract or dislodgement of the foreign body were reviewed. Results: 4 patients were identified to have a foreign body visualized on flexible laryngoscopy. All three patients were not in any airway distress and underwent successful removal of the foreign body, which included two fishbones, a sewing pin, and a wire bristle with a maxillary heuwieser under flexible laryngoscopy visualizing using local anesthesia without complications. No foreign bodies were dislodged. Conclusion: The use of a maxillary heuwieser and flexible laryngoscopy visualization is safe, allows for removal of otherwise difficult to reach foreign bodies at the bedside, obviates the need for general anesthesia to the patient, and minimizes healthcare costs.