Abstract
Although many esophageal foreign bodies are easily removed or can be expected to be eliminated naturally, a few lead to complications such as gastrointestinal perforation and subcutaneous or mediastinal emphysema. We discuss the management of cases of esophageal foreign bodies over the last 11 years as a contribution to the literature.
We encountered 98 cases of esophageal foreign bodies during the study period. We observed a bimodal age distribution, with clusters identified at ages 10–19 and 60–70 years. A push-through pack was the most common type of foreign body identified. Thirty patients required hospitalization; however, they were discharged after their condition improved.
Esophageal foreign bodies may be overlooked during routine otolaryngological examinations; therefore, it is important to perform upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or cervical computed tomography in suspected cases. Accidental ingestion of a sharp foreign body may lead to delayed perforation or penetration of the lower digestive tract. When this condition is suspected, interdepartmental coordination is important to perform a careful examination of the lower digestive tract.
