What is Foreign Body Removal?
Accidentally inhaled objects — such as seeds, nuts, pins, dental fragments or tablets — can lodge in the airways and cause cough, infection or lung collapse. Bronchoscopy with specialised forceps, baskets or cryoprobes can often retrieve the object without surgery. Rigid bronchoscopy may be needed in some cases.
Why it is done
- Known or suspected inhalation of an object
- Persistent cough or wheeze on one side after a choking episode
- Recurrent pneumonia in one area of the lung
Before the procedure
- Fasting for about 6 hours before the procedure (you will be given exact instructions)
- Inform the team about blood thinners, diabetes medicines and allergies — some medicines may need to be paused
- Blood tests and recent imaging (CT scan) are usually reviewed beforehand
- Bring a family member or friend to accompany you home
During the procedure
- The object is located with the bronchoscope
- Retrieval tools are used to grasp and remove it
- General anaesthesia and rigid bronchoscopy may be used when necessary
After the procedure
- You will be observed for a short period until the sedation wears off
- Avoid eating or drinking for about 1–2 hours, until the throat numbness settles
- A mild sore throat, cough or slight blood-streaked sputum may occur briefly
- Do not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day after sedation
- Biopsy results usually take a few days; your follow-up will be scheduled
Safety & risks
Bronchoscopy is generally a safe procedure. Possible risks include sore throat, transient fever, minor bleeding, low oxygen levels during the procedure and, rarely, pneumothorax (especially after lung biopsy). Your doctor will discuss the risks relevant to you before obtaining consent.
Preparation instructions may differ for individual patients — please follow the specific advice given at your consultation.