Bronchoscopy-guided foreign body remova

Bronchoscopy-guided foreign body removal is a medical procedure used to locate and extract objects that have been accidentally inhaled (aspirated) into the airway, typically into the trachea or bronchi. This is commonly seen in children, but can also occur in adults.

Overview

Bronchoscopy involves inserting a bronchoscope (a thin, flexible or rigid tube with a camera and tools) into the airways through the nose or mouth to visualize the tracheobronchial tree and remove the foreign object.

Indications

• Suspected aspiration of a foreign object (e.g. food, toy, dental item)

• Symptoms such as:

  • Persistent coughing

  • Stridor (high-pitched breathing)

  • Wheezing localized to one lung

  • Unexplained pneumonia or recurrent respiratory infections

Types of Bronchoscopy

Type	Description	Common Use Case
Rigid bronchoscopy	Performed under general anesthesia with a rigid scope.	Preferred in children and for large/solid foreign bodies
Flexible bronchoscopy	Uses a flexible fiberoptic scope, often under conscious sedation.	Better for small or distally located foreign bodies; diagnostic use

Key Points

• Rigid bronchoscopy is preferred for most pediatric cases and large or solid foreign bodies.

• Flexible bronchoscopy is useful for peripheral or small objects, and more often used in adults.

• Prompt diagnosis and removal are critical to prevent complications like infection or airway obstruction.