Accidental implant screwdriver aspiration: A case series report with literature review and proposed action protocol

Abstract

This article presents the first reported case series of three cases of aspiration of a dental implant screwdriver, which was successfully removed by flexible bronchoscopy. The report highlights preventive measures that can be taken in the dental office and the clinical signs and symptoms of the presence of a dental implant screwdriver in the bronchial tree. The nine reports published to date on this phenomenon are reviewed and compared, and an action protocol for dental practitioners, anaesthetists and pulmonologists is proposed to address this emergency. Some early and late complications are also described.

Keywords: bronchoscopy; clinical protocol; dental instrument; respiratory aspiration.