Medical Care
See the list below:
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Bronchodilators and corticosteroids should not be used to remove the foreign body, and chest physical therapy with postural drainage may dislodge the material to an area where it may cause more harm, such as at the level of the vocal cords.
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Medications are not necessary before removal, although the endoscopist may observe enough focal swelling after the material is removed to recommend a short course of systemic corticosteroids.
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Unless the airway secretions are infected with organisms present, antibiotics are not necessary.
Surgical Care
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Surgical therapy for an airway foreign body involves endoscopic removal, usually with a rigid bronchoscope. [11]
Consultations
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If the diagnosis is in question or a flexible bronchoscopy is needed, a pediatric pulmonologist should be consulted.
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A pediatric surgeon or pediatric otolaryngologist usually performs the rigid bronchoscopy if necessary.
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Aspirated foreign body (backing to an earring) lodged in the right main stem bronchus.