NON OPAQUE FOREIGN BODY ASPIRATION IN CHILDREN: SHOULD WE BE MORE VIGILANT AND PROACTIVE?

Abstract

Objective:

To study the frequency of symptoms, composition and complications of clinically suspected non

Methodology:

This descriptive analysis of 400 cases of foreign body aspiration was done in the department

of ENT & Head and Neck surgery, Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar from 2003-2006. One hundred cases

were selected with presumptive diagnosis of foreign bodies in tracheobronchial tree. The inclusion criteria

were non witness and non radio-opaque foreign bodies. We reviewed their hospital record to ascertain

history diagnosis and treatment. Age, sex, location in tracheobronchial tree, witnessed or un-witnessed

events, symptoms, radio graphic findings, anatomical abnormalities noted at endoscopy and complications

were recorded. Radio opaque foreign bodies were excluded from the study.

Results:

Conclusion:

A total of hundred cases were included. Age range was from 2-5 years. Males were 70 % and

females were 30%. Delay in presentation was from 10 days to 4 years. Common symptoms at presentation

were cough 55% and asthma 20%. Radiological findings were abnormal in 90% of cases. Upon

bronchoscopy 70% were positive for foreign body and 30% were negative. Peanuts (30%) and whistles

(28%) were the commonest foreign bodies No death occurred in this study and minor complications of the

procedure were only 15%.

Conclusion:

Aspiration of foreign bodies in children can lead to serious morbidity if not recognized and

treated in time; hence early referral is essential.

radio-opaque foreign body aspiration; which is a difficult diagnostic challenge resulting in delayed

referral for bronchoscopy.