Feasibility of Foley Catheter Prior to Endoscopy for the Removal of Esophageal Coin in Children

Purpose: This study evaluated the efficiency and safety of the Foley catheter for esophageal removal of coins in children, compared to standard endoscopic extraction with respect to success rate, sedation, promptness and cost. Methods: Twenty four children with coin lodgement in esophagus were managed with either a Foley catheter (n=14) or endoscopic extraction (n=10) from January 2007 through August 2010 at Kyungpook National University Hospital. A retrospective review of medical records and radiological findings was performed. Results: Of the 14 patients who underwent Foley catheter extraction, successful and complication-free removal was achieved in 10 cases (71.4%). Of the 10 patients who underwent endoscopic extraction, all cases were successful (p=0.114). Sedation rate in the Foley catheter and endoscopic extraction group was 6/14 and 10/10 (p=0.006). The average wait time before the procedure and average hospital charge (US$) were 2.0±1.1 hours and 18.1±13.7 hours, and $113 and $428 for Foley catheter extraction and endoscopic extraction, respectively. Conclusion: Foley catheter extraction may be tried for the removal of esophageal coins in uncomplicated children. The technique is effective, safe, inexpensive and free of general anesthesia. (Korean J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2011; 14: 251∼257)