Endoscopic foreign body removal

• This procedure is often performed urgently. Authorization will be arranged by the rooms or hospital staff where applicable.

• Fasting is required where possible:

• No solid food for 6 hours before the procedure

• No clear liquids for 2 hours before the procedure
  (In emergencies, the procedure may proceed despite incomplete fasting for safety reasons.)

• Inform your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medication.

• Diabetic medication instructions will be discussed with you.

Endoscopic foreign body removal is usually performed under sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the object, its location, and your clinical risk. You will be monitored throughout the procedure and observed afterwards until you are fully awake.

The procedure is performed using a flexible camera (gastroscope) passed through the mouth.

• The foreign body is located using the endoscope.

• Special retrieval devices (forceps, snares, baskets, nets, or caps) are used to grasp and remove the object.

• If food is impacted, it may be removed or gently advanced into the stomach when safe.

• The lining of the oesophagus and stomach is inspected for injury.

• In some cases, biopsies or additional treatment (such as dilatation of a stricture) may be required.

The procedure usually takes 15–45 minutes, depending on the type and location of the foreign body

• Sore throat or bloating (common and temporary)

• Bleeding

• Infection (rare)

• Perforation (tear) of the oesophagus or stomach (rare but serious)

• Aspiration (breathing stomach contents into the lungs), particularly if there is vomiting

• Reaction to sedation or anaesthesia

• Unintended damage to surrounding structures

• Contact the rooms or seek urgent medical attention if you develop chest pain, severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting blood, black stools, or difficulty swallowing after the procedure.

• Most patients are treated as a day case and go home the same day. Admission may be required if:

• There is significant oesophageal injury

• The foreign body was high-risk (e.g., battery, sharp object)

• There are complications or ongoing symptoms