Airway Foreign Bodies: Rigid vs Flexible Approach

Airway foreign body can be a medical emergency and is associated with significant morbidity and occasionally even death. The presentation may be acute, especially in children, who may manifest with respiratory failure requiring immediate intervention. In adults, the presentation is usually subacute and occasionally chronic. The initial step is confirmation of the diagnosis by performing flexible bronchoscopy. In majority of the cases, flexible bronchoscopy is therapeutic, and can be used successfully to remove a foreign body. Rigid bronchoscopy, however, may be required in younger children, in those with an asphyxiating foreign body or in situations where attempts with a flexible bronchoscope are unsuccessful. Herein, we discuss the various aspects of airway foreign body and the tools that are used for removing airway foreign body. In addition, we provide practical tips in handling and removing different types of airway foreign bodies.