Foreign body removal is a medical procedure that is followed to remove objects from the body that have entered by accident, be it through the skin, eyes, ears, nose, throat, or digestive tract. Such objects usually range from very minute particles such as dust and splinters to coins, toys, or even food items coming into the throat. They remove it for the sake of preventing any complications that could occur if the foreign object remains in the body.
Why is it Important?
The foreign body should be removed for several reasons: it may create irritation, pain, infection, or blockage, depending on the organ or part of the body the foreign body has come into contact with. If left untreated, the complication caused by a foreign object can increase in severity, leading to tissue damage, difficulty in breathing, and depending on the location, even life-threatening issues. Early removal would allow the area to heal properly and reduce permanent damage.
When to Go for Consultation?
If the foreign object is painful, bleeding, causing difficulty in breathing, difficulty in swallowing, or is deeply stuck, one should immediately visit the doctor. If the impaled object is in areas such as the eyes, ears, or throat, one should go for assessment by a professional and should be removed as fast as possible to avoid further complications.
What happens if it is Not Removed
If left behind, a foreign object might cause an infection, or chronic pain, or block vital pathways, such as an airway or intestines. The object may also continue to irritate tissues continuously and cause inflammation or an abscess. Over time, this will lead to severe tissue damage or even a systemic infection, which requires more invasive medical care.
Foreign Body Removal in Process:
Diagnosis: Thorough probing for location and type of foreign body.
Anesthesia: It may be local or general, depending on the site of the foreign body and the comfort of the patient.
Method of Removal: This shall be done with special instruments cautiously, like forceps, suction apparatus, or even an endoscope.
Checking after removal: The status of the remaining fragments and the integrity of the affected area should be checked.
Post-procedure steps:
Observation: Inspection of any immediate complications, like bleeding and infection.
Antibiotics (if needed): Prescribing antibiotics of moderate potency to prevent or treat any infection.
Follow-up: Return to evaluate the wound to ensure appropriate healing.
Home care: Discussing proper wound management, pain control, and signs of potential complications, what is to be watched for at home.