In emergency situations, tracheal intubation replaces fiberoptic bronchoscopy to extract foreign bodies from the airway, a case report

Introduction

Foreign bodies in the airways can cause significant morbidity and mortality. If emergency personnel are unable to clear an airway obstruction frequently results in cardiac arrest.

Patient concerns

A 78-year-old man developed a persistent cough and dyspnoea after consuming alcohol. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed, revealing complete blockage of the main airways on both sides by fish.

Diagnosis

Endotracheal foreign body.

Interventions

The foreign body was removed with an endotracheal tube under the guidance of a fiberoptic bronchoscope.

Outcomes

The airway foreign body had been successfully removed and the man recovered uneventfully.

Conclusion

When repeated attempts to extract airway foreign bodies under the guidance of bronchoscopy have failed, endotracheal intubation can be considered as a viable alternative in emergency situations.