Thoracic wall foreign bodies following penetrating trauma in pediatric age group: report of two cases with literature review

Abstract

Penetrating chest trauma is rarely seen in childhood. Following penetrative trauma various foreign objects may be detected as embedded in the tissues. A precise and prompt diagnosis together with an appropriate surgical management is paramount in these cases for a good prognosis. Here we present 2 cases with 2 different foreign bodies embedded in thoracic wall following different penetrating thoracic traumas. The purpose this report to critique the properties and handling of penetrative chest wall trauma in children with regard to post-traumatic retained FBs in thoracic wall and the topic is discussed under the light of relevant literature.

A Case of Esophageal Walnut Ingestion

“…intervention (1). The entry of foreign bodies into the esophagus typically occurs due to the accidental swallowing of small objects, a phenomenon commonly observed in children.…”

“…In adults, instances may be associated with ingesting food or other materials. Foreign bodies in the esophagus can result in obstruction, irritation, or even perforation, highlighting the significance of prompt and appropriate management (1,2). The approach to foreign bodies depends on the patient's symptoms and the nature of the foreign object.…”

A Clinical Study Of Foreign Bodies In The Aerodigestive Tract In National Ear Care Centre, Kaduna, Nigeria: 10 Years Retrospective Review

“…In adults, however, the common FBs are bones, protheses and metallic wares such as marbles, buttons, batteries, safety pins, etc. 2,3 They do occur in adults, but not on the same magnitude as in children .4,5 Approximately 80% of foreign bodies that appear in adults are composed of bone, leading to bone fragments or a material that forms a bolus in the gastrointestinal tract. 5,6 Prolonged retention of food substance in the stomach or esophagus may be due to (strictures in the oesophagus or peptic or neoplastic oesophagus), it may also point to an established pathologic process .6,7 Adults account for just 20% of the registered aspirations The most common causes include reduced mental alertness, a decreased level of consciousness, and poor airway reflexes.…”