Inhaled Foreign Bodies in Erbil, Experience with 72 Patients from 2007-2013

Abstract

Background and objectives: The aim of this study was to report on commonest inhaled foreign bodies in Erbil and challenging in diagnosis of rare foreign bodies and how to manage these cases properly to avoid serious complications. Methods: This is a prospective study of seventy two patients with history of inhalation of foreign bodies seen in otolaryngology clinic in Erbil between January 2007 and May 2013. Data of patients including age, sex, and occupations were recorded and saved. Presenting symptom of chocking, cough, dyspnea etc. were recorded. All patients with suspected foreign bodies’ inhalation were sent for chest X-ray imaging. Patients with positive finding and highly suspicious for inhaled for- eign bodies underwent rigid bronchoscopy for diagnosis and therapy. The type of foreign body removed was recorded. Results: Out of 72 cases, sixty patients were under 10 years old. Forty six patients were males and 26 females. In more than 94% positive physical findings were recorded. Diminished breathing sounds were the commonest. Plain chest film were normal in 56 (78%) of cases. Radio opaque FBs was only reported in 5 cases (7%). Sixty five patients (90%) managed by rigid bronchoscopy and 7 cases (10%) refused the procedure. A foreign body was detected in sixty patients (92%) while the bronchosco- py was negative in 5, (8%) of cases. No serious complication was recorded. Conclusions: It is advisable that rigid bronchoscopy be performed under general anesthesia in: all cases of highly suspicious for inhaled foreign bodies, Cases with chronic cough not responding to medical treatment, and children with wheezy chest which has started recently and does not response for medical therapy. The procedure must be done by a surgeon having good skill in rigid bronchoscopy.