FOREIGN BODY BRONCHUS – CHALLENGE FOR ALL CASE SERIES

Abstract

Tracheobronchial foreign body is an emergency situation with serious life threatening complications commonly seen in children. Early diagnosis and removal of the inhaled foreign material are associated with effective reduction in complications and mortality. We present a case series of four cases each with its own distinct issues requiring unique modifications in the anaesthetic techniques. Based upon the time after aspiration, type and location, the foreign body airway can have a wide range of clinical symptoms from asymptomatic to severe respiratory distress. Imaging modalities may often fail to visualize the foreign body with only features of partial obstruction (hyperinflation) or complete obstruction (atelectasis and collapse).The sensitivity of plain chest X-ray in detecting an actual foreign body or signs of it is around 62-68%. Bronchoscopy should be performed under optimal conditions after planning by experienced and well coordinated ENT and Anaesthesiologist teams.

Keywords: Anaesthetic Management, Foreign Body Bronchus, Paediatric, Rigid bronchoscopy