Endoscopic Retrieval of a Transpalatal Arch as an Orthodontic Emergency: A Case Report

Ingestion of a foreign object forms a potential complication, be it any branch of dentistry. The present article describes an incident of accidental foreign body ingestion by an orthodontic patient while trying to consume a firm Indian delicacy leading to fracture, and eventual swallowing of a Transpalatal arch. The case was immediately referred to Department of Gastroenterology, wherein the major part of fractured arch was retrieved endoscopically from stomach while the minor part’s trajectory was followed on subsequent radiographs until it was eliminated. This report concludes in the management and further discussion of possible clinical complications, causes, and practices for prevention.