On removal of complex foreign bodies from the esophagus using an esophagoscope

Abstract

We observed 4 patients with foreign bodies in the esophagus of complex cruciform configuration. The duration of foreign bodies in the esophagus before esophagoscopy for various reasons was 6, 9, 16, and 23 days. In all cases, the foreign bodies were radiologically located in the frontal plane above the level of the second physiological constriction of the esophagus and their ends protruded beyond the esophageal walls. Concomitant complications and severity of patients' condition were in direct correlation with the duration of foreign bodies' stay in the esophagus. All patients under endotracheal anesthesia underwent esophagoscopy to remove foreign bodies.