Quick and safe method for endoscopic foreign body removal

Benefits of endoscopic foreign body removal

Endoscopic foreign body removal is a medical procedure performed to remove objects that have become lodged in the gastrointestinal tract or respiratory pathways. This technique, using a thin, flexible tube known as an endoscope, is minimally invasive and typically safer than open surgery.

Minimally invasive nature

One of the most significant benefits of endoscopic foreign body removal is its minimally invasive nature. The procedure involves making small incisions or, in most cases, no incisions at all. This reduces the risk of complications and allows for a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.

Shorter recovery period

Patients undergoing an endoscopic foreign body removal can expect a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal activities. Unlike traditional surgery, which may require weeks of recovery, patients can often resume daily routines within days after an endoscopic therapy.

Lower risk of complications

Endoscopic procedures carry a lower risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications because they avoid large surgical wounds. Advanced tools used during the endoscopy provide precision, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.

Effective for various foreign bodies

Whether the object is sharp, round, or irregularly shaped, endoscopic techniques are versatile enough to remove a range of foreign bodies. This includes:

• Ingested items such as buttons or coins.
• Respiratory foreign bodies.
• Swallowed medications that can cause harm if not removed quickly.

Real-time visualization

With the help of modern imaging technology, endoscopes offer real-time visualization. This ensures that medical professionals can navigate and assess the area with the utmost precision, significantly improving the likelihood of a successful procedure.

The procedure of removing foreign objects by endoscopy

Before performing an endoscopy to remove a foreign object, the doctor needs to determine the location, shape, size, direction, position, relationship with surrounding tissues, duration of presence, and nature of the foreign object.

Based on the patient’s condition, the doctor will then decide whether anesthesia is needed and proceed with the procedure to remove the foreign object.

• Insertion of the endoscope: the patient is positioned, typically lying down, for optimal access. This positioning is essential for the endoscope to be inserted smoothly. The endoscope is carefully inserted through the mouth, throat, or nasal passage, depending on the location of the foreign body.
• Locating the foreign body: The camera on the endoscope transmits real-time images to a monitor, providing the medical professional with a clear view of the area and the precise location of the foreign object.
• Removing the foreign body: Specialized tools, such as forceps, snares, or baskets, are introduced through the endoscope to aid in the removal of the foreign body. These tools are carefully maneuvered to grasp and secure the object. Once the foreign body is successfully captured, it is gently extracted completely without any fragments left.
• Post-procedure care: After the removal, the patient may be monitored in a recovery room to ensure there are no immediate complications or side effects.

Indications and contraindications of endoscopic foreign body removal

Knowing when endoscopic foreign body removal procedure is needed when it might be risky is very important to ensure patient safety and success.

Indications

• Acute obstruction: When an object obstructs the airway or digestive tract, immediate action is necessary to prevent choking or damage.
• Persistent pain or discomfort: A foreign body that causes persistent discomfort or pain may need to be removed to alleviate symptoms.
• Risk of infection: Ingested objects, especially sharp ones, can puncture or damage the intestinal walls, leading to infections.
• Patient’s history of ingestion: Individuals who have a history of swallowing objects due to certain conditions (such as mental disorders, developmental issues) may be monitored and treated as needed.

Contraindications

• Suspected acute coronary syndrome.
• Patient with uncontrolled hypertension.
• Suspected perforation of a hollow organ.
• Suspected aortic aneurysm or dissection.
• Patient in respiratory failure.
• Severe heart failure.
• Patient with a psychiatric disorder who is uncooperative

In addition, patients with certain health conditions should undergo comprehensive evaluation and testing before a doctor decides to perform an endoscopy to remove a foreign body. These conditions include a systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg, being over 60 years old, or having suspected chronic heart or lung disease.

In summary, endoscopic foreign body removal offers a modern, precise solution for safely extracting foreign objects with minimal disruption. However, not everyone is suitable for this endoscopy procedure. Therefore, as soon as a foreign object is detected, you should go to the hospital as soon as possible to ensure safe and timely removal.