Foreign Body Removal

Foreign body removal in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a procedure performed to extract objects that have been ingested and become lodged in the digestive system. This can occur in both adults and children and may involve a wide range of foreign bodies, such as coins, toys, food items, or other objects accidentally swallowed. Foreign bodies can cause various symptoms depending on their size, shape, and location, including abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

The approach to foreign body removal in the GI tract depends on factors such as the type and location of the object, the patient's symptoms, and the risk of complications. In many cases, small objects that have not caused obstruction or perforation may pass through the digestive system naturally without intervention. However, larger or sharp objects, or those causing significant symptoms or complications, may require medical intervention for removal.

Endoscopic procedures are commonly used for foreign body removal in the GI tract. This involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) through the mouth or rectum to visualize the digestive tract and safely retrieve the foreign object. Endoscopic techniques allow for precise and minimally invasive removal, reducing the risk of complications compared to surgical approaches.

In cases where endoscopic removal is not feasible or successful, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery may be considered for objects that are too large or impacted, causing obstruction or perforation, or for complex cases requiring extensive intervention. Surgeons can use various techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery or open procedures, to safely remove foreign bodies and repair any damage to the GI tract.