Failed Extraction of a Sharp Esophageal Foreign Body With a Flexible Endoscope

Abstract

Several methods for the extraction of esophageal foreign bodies have been described. The most common approaches use either the flexible fiberoptic esophagoscope or the rigid esophagoscope. We report an unusual complication following the attempted extraction of a sharp esophageal foreign body with a flexible esophagoscope, review the indications for these 2 methods of extraction, and discuss the potential morbidity and mortality of these 2 approaches.

Accidental swallowing of the head of a dental mirror: Report of a rare case

“…30 The rigid esophagoscopy success rates range from 94% to 100%; the estimated incidence of esophageal or pharyngeal perforation is 0.34%, and mortality is 0.05%. 31,32 In the present case, rigid esophagoscopy was used and the broken head of the mirror was successfully removed.…”

Thoracoscopic Retrieval of a “Smiling” Foreign Body From the Proximal Esophagus

“…The dentures' large size, sharp edges, and metal clasps make endoscopic extraction unsafe. 9 The risk of esophageal perforation is about 23%. 10 It is therefore suggested that the safest and the most effective method of removing impacted dentures in the esophagus is through an elective open esophagotomy.…”

Dysphagia After Emergency Intubation: Case Report and Literature Review

“…These methods include the Foley catheter [11,12], glucagon [13,14], bougienage technique [15], flexible esophagoscopy [16][17][18][19], and rigid esophagoscopy [20][21][22].…”

“…The range of foreign bodies able to be removed with a flexible gastroscope has expanded with the development of newer snares, cages, and forceps. Removal of a foreign body with the flexible gastroscope is more likely to be successful and atraumatic when the foreign body does not have sharp or penetrating edges [19]. Flexible endoscopy, in properly trained hands, is therefore a safe and viable method for extraction of foreign bodies of the esophagus.…”

“…Its main advantage appears to be in the removal of sharp-edged foreign bodies by providing some mucosal protection. By drawing the sharp edges of the foreign body into the metal lumen of the scope and gradually removing the foreign body, the mucosa of the esophagus is protected [19].…”