Impacted stump of toothbrush in the throat following a fall: a case report

The objective of this paper is to emphasise the importance of detailed history, thorough physical examination and the need to expose undergraduates to basic Otorhinolaryngological skills of clinical examination as a way of overcoming the diagnostic challenges of foreign body in the throat. The case was an 8-year old boy who presented with 1-year history of impacted stump of toothbrush in his throat following a fall. With a high index of suspicion, his throat was examined under bright illumination and a foreign body brought into view by tongue depression was found impacted in his left tonsillar fossa. He was subsequently taken to the operating room for removal under General Anaesthesia. Intra-operatively, the stump of a toothbrush measuring 4.8cm in length was confirmed and removed (Figs 1 & 2). The procedure was uneventful. Foreign body in the throat could pose diagnostic challenge. Detailed history and thorough physical examination are essential to clinch a diagnosis. Early referral in doubtful cases goes a long way to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with delayed removal.