MAGNET-ASSISTED RIGID BRONCHOSCOPY FOR REMOVAL OF A PERIPHERAL METALLIC AIRWAY FOREIGN BODY IN PEDIATRICS: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Foreign body aspiration is a frequent pediatric emergency and may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The removal of metallic foreign bodies located in peripheral bronchial regions represents a technical challenge, particularly when conventional instruments do not allow adequate access. We report the case of a 7-year-old pediatric patient with aspiration of a metallic foreign body (pin) lodged distally in the right bronchial tree. Due to the inability to visualize and extract the object using standard bronchoscopic techniques, a handmade magnet-assisted device was introduced through a rigid bronchoscope under fluoroscopic guidance. This approach allowed complete removal of the foreign body in a short operative time and without complications. Magnet-assisted rigid bronchoscopy under fluoroscopic guidance represents a safe and effective alternative for the extraction of peripheral metallic foreign bodies in the pediatric airway, especially when conventional instrumentation proves insufficient.