M C G Pantuzo1, E Nunes2, L R Pires2, L S da M C Pinto2, D D Oliveira3. 1. School of Dentistry, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Av. Dom José Gaspar, 500, Prédio 46, Sala 106, Belo Horizonte, MG, 30535-610, Brazil. marielegarcia@yahoo.com.br. 2. School of Dentistry, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Av. Dom José Gaspar, 500, Prédio 46, Sala 106, Belo Horizonte, MG, 30535-610, Brazil. 3. Department of Orthodontics, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Abstract
AIM: To draw attention and increase professional awareness about the potentially serious complications that may occur when these misfortunes happen and to what actions could be implemented to avoid such accidents. METHODS: The present case report is of an accidental ingestion of a rapid maxillary expander (RPE) activation key in a cardiac patient and the subsequent diagnostic confirmation with radiographs and the management of this accident thereafter. RESULTS: On the third day after the accidental ingestion of the RPE key, the patient's parents reported that the key was expelled in the stools without further complication. CONCLUSIONS: Ingestion of foreign bodies is a potential complication during orthodontic treatment. These types of accidents may cause serious consequences to the patient, especially if there is a pre-existing systemic condition, such as heart disease or respiratory problems.
AIM: To draw attention and increase professional awareness about the potentially serious complications that may occur when these misfortunes happen and to what actions could be implemented to avoid such accidents. METHODS: The present case report is of an accidental ingestion of a rapid maxillary expander (RPE) activation key in a cardiac patient and the subsequent diagnostic confirmation with radiographs and the management of this accident thereafter. RESULTS: On the third day after the accidental ingestion of the RPE key, the patient's parents reported that the key was expelled in the stools without further complication. CONCLUSIONS: Ingestion of foreign bodies is a potential complication during orthodontic treatment. These types of accidents may cause serious consequences to the patient, especially if there is a pre-existing systemic condition, such as heart disease or respiratory problems.