A REVIEW OF FATAL AND NEAR FATAL FOREIGN BODY IN THE PAEDIATRIC AIRWAY: TIMELY INTERVENTION COUNTS

Abstract

Background: Accidental ingestion or aspiration of foreign bodies carries a potential risk of fatality in children and early intervention is vital. The urgency often dictates prompt referral to otolaryngologist. However, at the referral center, time may not always permit the most skilled specialist to arrive the point of care. Hence, the life-saving task may fall on any other doctor or ENT trained-nurse available in the emergency room at the time of patient’s arrival. 
Objective: We analyzed contributory factors to morbidity and mortality in four selected cases; two near-fatal foreign body in infants, along with two others were delayed or no intervention led to fatal outcome.
Method: In the current study, a retrospective review of case files of four patients with foreign body aspiration was conducted.
Result: Two out of the 4 (50%) airway foreign bodies were successfully removed one with and the other without anesthesia. One of the lifesaving foreign body retrievals was done by an ENT trained nurse using available instruments and the other by an anaesthetist.The other two died either because of delayed presentation or refusal to consent to surgical intervention.
Conclusion: The findings revealed that prompt imaging and referral to specialist center for early intervention are important  factors to the outcome. However, the absence of the most skilled manpower or the best instrument should not be allowed to preclude timely intervention.