Management of foreign bodies in otorhinolaryngology

Foreign bodies in the ear, nose, and throat are commonly seen, usually in children. Diagnosis is often delayed because the causative event is usually unobserved, the symptoms are nonspecific, and patients often are misdiagnosed initially. Most ear and nose foreign bodies can be removed by a skilled physician in the office with minimal risk of complications. Pharyngeal or tracheal foreign bodies are medical emergencies requiring radiological and surgical intervention. Flexible or rigid endoscopy usually is required to confirm the diagnosis and to remove the foreign body. Physicians need to have a high index of suspicion for foreign bodies in children with unexplained upper airway symptoms.