Suspension Microesophagoscopy: A Simple Diagnostic And Therapeutic Technique For Foreign Body In Esophagus

Background Foreign body ingestion involving the paediatric age group is a common emergency referral encountered by Otorhinolaryngologists. The cervical oesophagus has been noted as the most prevalent site of impaction. Traditionally, a rigid oesophagoscopy would be required for examination under anaesthesia and removal of the foreign body is found, but this method may miss foreign bodies that are embedded into the mucosa, and faulty technique may result in perforation of the esophagus. Method and results: We present a suspension microesophagoscopy technique using a Lindholm laryngoscope and suspension to retract and suspend the opening of the oesophagus. Conclusion: This technique not only gives the surgeon an advantage to perform a two-handed procedure but also allows for a magnified examination of the oesophageal mucosa with the help of a rigid telescope for a thorough examination. Bullet Point summary. The best diagnostic and therapeutic method for the management of foreign body in the oesophagus is examination under anaesthesia. Suspension microesophagoscopy can be done in the operation theatre with pre-existing instrument. This technique allows freedom for a two-handed technique. This technique gives a magnified visualisation of the mucosa revealing any embedded foreign body.