Challenges and Considerations in Managing Subglottic Foreign Bodies
- PMID: 40321383
- PMCID: PMC12043556
- DOI: 10.1007/s12070-025-05484-7
Challenges and Considerations in Managing Subglottic Foreign Bodies
Abstract
Advancements in endoscopy, anaesthesia, radiology, and surgical techniques have reduced paediatric airway foreign body mortality. Despite this, children aged 0-3 years are particularly susceptible to airway obstructions due to immature swallowing coordination and inability to distinguish edible from non-edible items. Foreign body aspiration often presents with coughing, wheezing, and respiratory distress but can be challenging to diagnose without a witnessed event. This case report describes a 16-month-old who aspirated a pork bone, requiring tracheostomy and emergency bronchoscopy. Foreign body was successfully removed from the subglottic region using a paediatric bronchoscope. Subglottic foreign bodies, though rare, pose significant risks. Prompt intervention, proper training, and effective team coordination are crucial for successful management and preventing complications.
Keywords: Airway; Bronchoscopy; Foreign body; Paediatrics; Subglottis; Tracheostomy.
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Conflict of interest statement
Competing InterestThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.