Retrieval of aspirated iatrogenic, sharp foreign body using fiberoptic bronchoscope

Abstract

Foreign body (FB) aspiration into the tracheobronchial tree is a fairly common occurrence in the pediatric age group. The most common FBs aspirated are organic materials. However, aspiration of iatrogenic FB is rare and infrequently reported. It is a challenge to retrieve a sharp and pointed FB without further injuring the tracheobronchial tree. We report an unusual case of sharp and pointed dental instrument aspiration in a 4-year-old boy, which was safely removed by a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope and sequestering the FB within the endotracheal tube without injuring the tracheobronchial mucosa.

Keywords

• aspiration
• bronchoscopy
• hand protaper
• iatrogenic
• pediatric