Removal of Gastrointestinal Foreign Body

Abstract

Foreign body ingestion in the gastrointestinal tract requires immediate medical attention. Although most ingested foreign bodies pass out spontaneously without significant problem, immediate removal is necessary if the patient is symptomatic, the foreign bodies are sharp or thick, or the foreign bodies are batteries or magnets. Endoscopic management is the most commonly used method for removal of foreign body with a high success rate and low complication rate. Strategies for endoscopic removal of foreign body vary with shape, size, consistency, and location of foreign body within the GI tract. Before and after removal of foreign body, development of complications should be carefully observed, and radiologic evaluation should be done in patients suspected of complications. The complications related to foreign body in the GI tract include mucosal abrasion, laceration, bleeding, abscess formation, necrosis, and perforation. If endoscopic removal of foreign body in the GI tract is not feasible, multidisciplinary approach is needed.

Appendix: Quiz

Which foreign body in the GI tract does not require emergent endoscopic removal?

• 1. Sharp-shaped foreign body.

• 2. Battery.

• 3. Magnets.

• 4. Round pill that passed into the small intestine.

• 5. Objects with complete obstruction.

In patients with foreign bodies in the GI tract, which site is the most frequently involved?

• 1. Pharynx.

• 2. Esophagus.

• 3. Stomach.

• 4. Small intestine.

• 5. Large intestine.