Pediatric Airway Foreign Body Aspiration: A 5-Year Retrospective Analyses of Rigid Bronchoscopy Treatment

Abstract

Background: Pediatric airway foreign body aspiration (PAFBA) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children under 3. This study evaluates clinical presentations, foreign body types, management, complications, and seasonal trends over 5 years. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 237 patients (<17 years) with suspected PAFBA at Shar Emergency Hospital from June 2019 to June 2023. Data included demographics, symptoms, imaging, and bronchoscopy outcomes. Results: The median age was 3.5 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.34:1. Cough and breathing difficulty were common symptoms; 67.5% of cases were witnessed. Rigid bronchoscopy confirmed foreign bodies in 69.6% of cases, commonly sunflower seeds (14.3%) and scarf pins (13.5%), lodged in the right main bronchus (30.8%). Spring showed the highest incidence (34.1%). Complications were rare (1.2% mortality). Conclusion: PAFBA requires urgent diagnosis and rigid bronchoscopy. Increased family education and preventive measures are crucial, particularly during high-risk seasons.