Treatment of foreign bodies in the esophagus via rigid esophagoscopy.

Abstract

Background : Foreign bodies in the esophagus is a common problem. Despite the treatments by otolaryngologists via rigid esophagoscopies generally yield good results,complications can still occur. The prevention of esophageal perforation with which leads to serious complication is essential.

Objective : To study our experiences in the treatment of foreign bodies in the esophagus with rigid esophagoscope at Rayong Hospital by 3 otolaryngologists.

Method : We retrospectively studied a consecutive series of patients underwent rigid esophagoscopy from October 2005 to September 2008. There were 26 males and 6 females with the age range of 1 to 74 years old. The types of foreign bodies and the results of the procedure were discussed.

Result : Fifteen Cases (46.3 percent) had the age of 10 years or under. Coins were the most common foreign bodies ( 43.8 percent), followed by chicken bones (25 percent),and dentures (15.6 percent). All patients of this group underwent rigid esophagoscopy with satisfactory results.

Conclusion : Rigid esophagoscopy is the treatment of choice for foreign bodies in the Esophagus.

Keywords : Esophageal foreign body, Rigid esophagoscope, Rigid esophagoscopy