Broncoscopy: foreign body aspiration: a case report

Bronchial foreign body aspiration is a critical condition that jeopardizes the respiratory function of children. Prompt diagnosis and removal of the foreign body can reduce occurrence of foreign body complications and mortality. Aspiration of plastic whistles is rare, and this is difficult to retrieve. Patient concerns: An 8-year-old boy developed fever and intermittent cough after he accidentally inhaled a plastic whistle 5 months ago. Chest computed tomography scan revealed dense material with central lucencyin the right lower lobe. Diagnoses: Foreign body in the right lower lobe. Interventions: Retrieval by Rigid bronchoscopy was undertaken. Outcomes: The plastic whistle was successfully retrieved and the child recovered uneventfully. Lessons: Foreign body aspiration in children constitutes a medical emergency in severe cases. Flexible bronchoscopy and balloon-tipped catheter retrieval can also be used along with Rigid Bronchoscope.