Foreign Body Removal by Flexible Bronchoscopy Using Retrieval Basket in Children
Foreign Body Removal by Flexible Bronchoscopy Using Retrieval Basket in Children
Abstract
Introduction: Aspiration of foreign bodies into the tracheobronchial tree is a common accident in children. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and outcome of foreign body removal by flexible bronchoscopy using a retrieval basket in children. Methods: This was a retrospective study of children treated for foreign bodies in the airway via flexible bronchoscopy using a retrieval basket at a tertiary hospital in Korea between January, 2014 and July, 2017. The medical records of the patients were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Results: A total of 17 children underwent foreign body removal from the airway via flexible bronchoscopy using a retrieval basket. The median age of the patients was 13 (range, 8-48) months, and 11 (64.7%) were male. Foreign bodies removed included 13 (76.5%) organic items including peanuts, almond, beans; and 4 (23.5%) inorganic items including a plastic bag, metal screw, spring, and lego brick. The locations of the foreign bodies were as follows: 5 in the central airway (trachea, n=4; subglottic area, n=1), 7 in the right bronchial tree, and 5 in the left bronchial tree. Successful removal was observed in 15 (88.2%) cases. The only complication that occurred was mild laryngeal edema (n=2) after the procedure; both improved with corticosteroid administration. Conclusion: Flexible bronchoscopic extraction of foreign body in the airway using a retrieval basket in children can be performed successfully with minimal complications.