On January 23rd, Dr. Nguyen Thanh Vinh, Deputy Director of Ho Chi Minh City Otolaryngology Hospital and Associate Professor, shared two recent cases of successful foreign object removal surgeries at the hospital. These incidents serve as reminders about eating habits and highlight the importance of timely detection and treatment.
Foreign Objects in Food: When Meals Become Dangerous
Case One: A Sharp Fish Bone
A 58-year-old woman from Dong Nai was admitted to the hospital with persistent dry cough and chest pain after eating a hotpot containing meat and fish. After examination and a CT scan of the neck, doctors discovered a sharp fish bone, over 1.5 cm long, lodged in the lower lobe bronchus. The foreign object was successfully removed through bronchoscopy surgery.
Case Two: A Metal Wire
Simultaneously, a 47-year-old woman from Binh Phuoc was hospitalized for prolonged swallowing pain after eating fish stew. Despite previous treatments at a private hospital, her symptoms persisted. At Ho Chi Minh City Otolaryngology Hospital, a CT scan revealed a 20mm twisted metal wire lodged in her esophagus. The object was successfully removed during an endoscopic laryngoscopy procedure.
Symptoms and Serious Complications
According to Dr. Nguyen Tường Đức, Deputy Head of the General Pediatrics Department, common symptoms of foreign body ingestion include difficulty swallowing, throat pain, neck swelling, or breathing difficulties. If not treated promptly, the foreign object can cause severe infections, abscesses, and even affect vital organs like the heart.
Especially, sharp objects such as fish bones, hard seeds, or metals pose significant risks and can be life-threatening. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial to prevent serious consequences.
Prevention Tips
Dr. Nguyen Thanh Vinh emphasized the following precautions to prevent foreign body ingestion:
- Children: Chew food thoroughly, avoid talking or laughing while eating, and do not chew on toys.
- Adults: Regularly check dentures for cracks or breaks.
- Elderly or bedridden patients: Careful assistance is needed during feeding to prevent choking.
Additionally, remove hooks, small metal objects, or other hazardous items from food before preparation.
Conclusion
Foreign body ingestion is a common but dangerous issue, especially during daily meals. Raising awareness and taking preventive measures can protect both personal and family health. Always be cautious and seek medical help if any unusual symptoms occur.
For more details, readers can refer to the original article here.
