UNUSUAL AIRWAY FOREIGN BODY IN AN ADULT FOLLOWING DENTAL PROCEDURE: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Foreign body in tracheobronchial tree is common in children, but rarely can happen to adults as well. Sharp pointed foreign body inhalation is further rare and can pose therapeutic difficulties. Anaesthesized pharynx and larynx increases its chance by blunting the reflex. Hence care should be practiced in dental procedures where local anesthetics applied should not spill down and no loose instruments should be used that may slip off at the end being foreign body in the airway. Simple X-rays can detect and locate radio-opaque foreign body. Rigid bronchoscopy by an experienced surgeon can tackle these rarities and open procedures can be avoided in most of the cases.

Keywords: Airway, Foreign body, Tracheobronchial tree