Endoscopic techniques and management of foreign body ingestion and food bolus impaction in the upper gastrointestinal tract: a retrospective analysis of 139 cases

Abstract

Background: Ingested foreign bodies and food bolus impaction are frequently seen in endoscopic practice. Successful foreign body and food bolus removal may depend on the method used, the choice of device, and the experience level of the endoscopist, although few papers report experience and outcome of tertiary centers.

Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of our protocol designed for removal of ingested foreign bodies and food boluses.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients with a diagnosis of foreign body ingestion and food bolus impaction from 1994 to 2005 identified by computer search. Patients were excluded if medical record was incomplete.

Results: The analysis included 171 patients. Foreign bodies and impacted food boluses were found in 77 and 62 patients, respectively. In 32 cases (23%), the foreign bodies passed spontaneously through the gastrointestinal tract. The overall success rate for endoscopic management was obtained in 137 patients (98.6%). Surgical removal of a foreign body was required in only 2 cases (1.4%). According to the type and location of the foreign object and food bolus we used Dormia baskets, retrieval forceps, polypectomy snares, and all sizes of Roth net. No complications relating to the endoscopic procedure were observed; 50 patients (35.2%) had an underlying esophageal disease.

Conclusions: Endoscopic removal of upper gastrointestinal tract foreign bodies and food bolus impaction is efficacious and safe. Especially the Roth net is the best device for safe retrieval of food boluses and button disc batteries.