Impacted Stump of Toothbrush in the Throat following a fall: A case report

Abstract

Aims and Objectives : The objective of this paper is to emphasise the importance of detailed history, thorough physical examination and the need to expose undergraduates to basic Otorhinolaryngological skills of clinical examination as a way of overcoming the diagnostic challenges of foreign body in the throat. Patients and Methods : The case was an 8-year old boy who presented with 1-year history of impacted stump of toothbrush in his throat following a fall. With a high index of suspicion, his throat was examined under bright illumination and a foreign body brought into view by tongue depression was found impacted in his left tonsillar fossa. He was subsequently taken to the operating room for removal under General Anaesthesia. Results : Intra-operatively, the stump of a toothbrush measuring 4.8cm in length was confirmed and removed (Figs 1 & 2). The procedure was uneventful. Conclusion : Foreign body in the throat could pose diagnostic challenge. Detailed history and thorough physical examination are essential to clinch a diagnosis. Early referral in doubtful cases goes a long way to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with delayed removal.

Keywords

• toothbrush stump
• impaction
• throat
• long duration