Foreign Body Removal by Endoscopy

 

Safe and Advanced Care at Global Gastro and Liver Centre

 

Foreign Body Removal by Endoscopy is a specialized, minimally invasive procedure used to safely remove swallowed or stuck objects from the digestive tract. Foreign bodies may become lodged in the esophagus (food pipe), stomach, or upper intestine, causing pain, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, or serious complications if not treated promptly. At Global Gastro and Liver Centre, we provide expert endoscopic foreign body removal using advanced equipment and highly skilled gastroenterologists to ensure patient safety and rapid relief.

 

This procedure is commonly performed as an emergency or urgent intervention and is suitable for both adults and children.

 

What Is Foreign Body Removal by Endoscopy?

 

Foreign body removal by endoscopy involves the use of a flexible endoscope—a thin tube with a camera and light—to locate and safely extract an object from the gastrointestinal tract. Special endoscopic tools such as forceps, snares, baskets, or retrieval nets are used to remove the foreign body under direct visual guidance.

 

Unlike surgical methods, endoscopic removal does not require any incision, making it safer, quicker, and associated with faster recovery.

 

Common Types of Foreign Bodies

 

Foreign bodies may be swallowed accidentally or intentionally. Some of the most commonly encountered objects include:

 

• Coins, buttons, or small toys (common in children)
• Fish bones, chicken bones, or meat bolus
• Dentures or dental appliances
• Pins, needles, or sharp objects
• Batteries (especially button batteries)
• Food stuck due to esophageal narrowing
• Medication blister packs
• Metallic or plastic objects

 

Certain objects, such as batteries or sharp items, require immediate removal due to the risk of tissue damage or perforation.

 

When Is Endoscopic Foreign Body Removal Needed?

 

Endoscopic removal is recommended when a foreign object:

• Is stuck in the food pipe or stomach
• Causes pain, choking, or difficulty swallowing
• Leads to vomiting or excessive salivation
• Causes bleeding or chest discomfort
• Has sharp edges or corrosive properties
• Is a battery or magnet
• Does not pass naturally through the digestive tract

 

Early removal helps prevent serious complications such as infection, perforation, or internal bleeding.

 

Symptoms of a Stuck Foreign Body

 

Patients may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Sudden difficulty swallowing
• Pain in the throat, chest, or upper abdomen
• Sensation of something stuck in the throat
• Drooling or inability to swallow saliva
• Vomiting or retching
• Chest pain or breathing discomfort
• Coughing or choking episodes

 

In children, symptoms may be subtle, such as irritability, refusal to eat, or unexplained crying.

 

How Is Foreign Body Removal Performed?

 

1. Initial Assessment

The doctor first evaluates the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and timing of ingestion. Imaging tests such as X-ray or CT scan may be used to locate the object.

 

2. Preparation and Sedation

Patients are usually kept fasting for a few hours. Mild sedation or anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort and prevent discomfort during the procedure.

 

3. Endoscopic Removal

The endoscope is gently passed through the mouth into the digestive tract. The foreign object is visualized on a monitor, and specialized tools are used to carefully grasp and remove it.

 

4. Post-Procedure Observation

After removal, the patient is observed for a short period to ensure stability. Most patients can return home the same day.

The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes, depending on the type and location of the foreign body.

 

Benefits of Endoscopic Foreign Body Removal

 

• Minimally invasive with no surgical cuts
• Immediate relief from symptoms
• Lower risk compared to surgery
• Quick recovery and same-day discharge
• Safe for adults and children
• Prevents serious complications

Endoscopy allows precise removal under direct vision, significantly reducing the risk of injury to surrounding tissues.

 

Safety and Possible Risks

 

Endoscopic foreign body removal is generally very safe when performed by experienced specialists. However, rare risks may include:

 

• Mild throat irritation
• Minor bleeding
• Temporary chest discomfort
• Rare risk of perforation
• Reaction to sedative medications

 

At Global Gastro and Liver Centre, strict safety protocols and continuous monitoring are followed to minimize risks and ensure patient well-being.

 

After the Procedure: What to Expect

 

Following the procedure:

 

• Mild throat discomfort may be present for a few hours
• Normal diet can usually be resumed as advised by the doctor
• Patients are advised to avoid driving for the rest of the day due to sedation
• Medications may be prescribed if there is inflammation or injury

 

In most cases, patients experience immediate improvement in symptoms.

 

Special Considerations in Children

 

Children are especially prone to foreign body ingestion. At our center, we provide child-friendly care, gentle handling, and specialized pediatric endoscopic techniques to ensure safety and comfort. Parents are guided thoroughly before and after the procedure.

 

Prevention Tips

 

To reduce the risk of foreign body ingestion:

• Keep small objects away from children
• Chew food properly and eat slowly
• Be cautious with dentures
• Avoid talking or laughing while eating
• Supervise children during meals

 

Early medical attention is crucial if ingestion is suspected.

 

Book an Appointment or Emergency Consultation

 

If you or your child has swallowed a foreign object or is experiencing symptoms of obstruction, seek immediate medical attention. Global Gastro and Liver Centre offers prompt and safe Foreign Body Removal by Endoscopy to protect your digestive health.

 

Timely treatment saves lives. Trust the experts at Global Gastro and Liver Centre.