Removal of Sharp Esophageal Foreign Body
James R Tate, MD (presenter); Chetan Gujrathi MD
Sacramento CA; Toronto AZ

OBJECTIVES: 1. To understand the methods available for
extraction of unusual sharp esophageal foreign bodies. 2. Be
able to choose these methods appropriately.
METHODS: Case report examining one patient with three
unusual sharp esophageal foreign bodies in a university setting.
RESULTS: Successful removal of three sharp esophagel foreign
bodies using rigid esophagoscopy.
CONCLUSIONS: There is controversy regarding the best
approach for removing an esophagel foreign body: flexible
fiberoptic esophagoscope vs. rigid esophagoscope. The use of
flexible fiberoptic endoscopy for removal of esophageal foreign
bodies has proven to be a safe and effective tool. However,
sharp foreign bodies present a challenge. The choice of
endoscopy should be dictated by the type of foreign body
being removed and the location of the foreign body within the
esophagus. This case report illustrates a circumstance in which
rigid endoscopy is preferred because the object can be introduced
into the lumen of the esophagoscope and withdrawn,
safely protecting the esophageal mucosa during extraction.
Conversely, with a flexible endoscope there is a higher likelihood
of esophageal laceration or perforation during extraction
of sharp foreign objects.

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Volume 135, Issue 2, Supplement 1, August 2006, Page P219
Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, 2006 Official Program