Pediatric tracheobronchial foreign bodies. A case report.

Pediatric tracheobronchial foreign bodies (PTBFBs) remain a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. Because physicians do not always obtain a history of aspiration, and because the signs and symptoms of a PTBFB are nonspecific, diagnosis may be delayed, which increases the risk of complications when the foreign body is removed. Flexible fiberoptic and rigid bronchoscopy are often used in tandem for the identification and removal of PTBFBs. Recent advances in bronchoscopic equipment and technique have made removal of PTBFBs safer and more successful. Education of parents, child care providers, and medical personnel can reduce morbidity and mortality due to PTBFBs.