MANAGEMENT OF TRACHEO BRONCHIAL FOREIGN BODIES IN CHILDREN

Abstract

This is a study of 32 cases of foreign body tracheobronchial tree in children, spread over two years’ period.More than 65 % of patients were of two years and below. The male to female ratio was 2:1. More than 70% of foreignbodies were vegetable in nature. Foreign bodies were located more often in the right main bronchus as compared tothe left (3:2). In all cases, foreign bodies were removed under G.A., with the help of rigid pediatric bronchoscopes.There was no mortality. In 04 cases no history of foreign body inhalation was forthcoming and bronchoscopy wasdone because the child had persistent cough and episodes of dysphonia. There was a delay of 1-10 days beforepresentation in the majority of patients. Majority of the patients presented 24 •hours after the inhalation of foreignbody. Removal of foreign body tracheobronchial tree through rigid bronchoscope under GA is a safe and lifesavingprocedure with good results.