Airway Foreign Body

Airway foreign body is a critical condition in respiratory medicine, often presenting as an emergency requiring prompt recognition and intervention. It occurs when an object, such as food particles, small toys, or other materials, becomes lodged within the trachea or bronchi, leading to partial or complete obstruction. The clinical presentation varies depending on the size, location, and duration of the obstruction, ranging from acute coughing, wheezing, and stridor to chronic symptoms such as recurrent infections or persistent localized wheeze. Children are most commonly affected due to their tendency to explore objects orally, but adults with neurological impairment, poor dentition, or swallowing disorders are also at risk. Diagnostic evaluation involves a thorough history, physical examination, and imaging such as chest radiography or CT scans, though some foreign bodies may not be visible radiologically. Definitive diagnosis and removal are usually achieved through bronchoscopy, which serves both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Rigid bronchoscopy remains the gold standard, particularly in pediatric cases, while flexible bronchoscopy may be employed in adults for more distal obstructions. Airway foreign body management requires timely intervention to prevent complications such as pneumonia, atelectasis, bronchiectasis, or even fatal asphyxiation. Preventive strategies, including caregiver education, age-appropriate feeding practices, and safety measures in households, significantly reduce incidence. Advances in endoscopic techniques, anesthesia safety, and post-removal care continue to improve outcomes, highlighting the importance of rapid diagnosis, skilled intervention, and prevention in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with airway foreign body cases.