Analysis of Nasal Foreign Bodies in South Korea: Over 10-Year Experience

Abstract

Foreign bodies (FBs) in the nasal cavity are commonly encountered in otorhinolaryngology. This retrospective study was conducted between January 2009 and December 2020. The nasal FB frequencies were investigated according to age and sex. The type, shape, and location of the FBs, onset, and clinical features were obtained. In a total of 1228 cases, the average age was 3.9 ± 5.7 years. We found a higher incidence in patients 2–4 years old. The most frequent nasal FBs were beads (24.0%), toys/plastics (17.8%), and beans/corn (15.8%). However, there were some differences in the nasal FB types according to the age group. There was no difference in the location of the nasal FBs according to age group, but nasal FBs were found more frequently in the right nasal cavity in the 1–3-years-old groups. Most patients (97.5%) visited the hospital the same day when the nasal FB insertion was suspected, and most were asymptomatic. After the removal of the nasal FBs, most patients were free of complications. Of the nine cases involving button batteries, septal perforation was observed in two patients who visited the hospital one or two days after the FB insertion. There were specific age-based characteristics of the nasal FBs that may serve as a basis for specific precautions.

Foreign Body in the Nasal Cavity: A Case Report

“…A previous study on 87 children by Aslan et al found that 42.5% were of the female gender [ 7 ]. Though in the majority of cases (62.1-71%), the foreign body was found to be organic in nature [ 7 , 8 ], the round-shaped foreign bodies, whether organic or inorganic, are the most commonly found inserted in the nasal cavities by children [ 9 ]. Our patient inserted a spade-shaped foreign body, which has round borders, making it easier to insert.…”

“…They may insert objects into their nostrils as a form of entertainment, experimentation, or imitation. Little objects, such as beads, food, or little toys, are popular alternatives for children to investigate [ 6 , 9 , 12 ]. This is similar to our patient who inserted a necklace bead, highlighting the need for extra vigilance for her parent, who reported seeing her inserting something.…”

Nasal congestion caused by long-term retention of a nasal foreign body near the orbit: A case report

“…Nasal foreign bodies are commonly encountered in the emergency department and require prompt intervention to avoid the onset and progression of complications. Foreign bodies in the nasal cavity are frequently reported in children but may also be encountered in adults with mental disorders or nasal trauma[ 1 , 2 ]. Adult patients often lack awareness of nasal ectopia, which delays treatment.…”