An unusual rhino-pharyngeal foreign body

Abstract

Background: Foreign bodies of the upper aerodigestive tract are commonly seen in the paediatric population; however adult patients with nasal foreign bodies in particular are much less common and when sharp foreign bodies are present there is a great risk of developing complications. Study design: This is a case report of a 20-year-old male magician with impacted rhino-pharyngeal foreign body. He intentionally inserted two long sewing needles into the right nasal cavity during a magical act. Results: The impacted foreign bodies were located in his nose/pharynx and removal was achieved per orally under general anaesthesia. Only a minimal evidence of retropharyngeal abscess was noted despite the prolonged stay of the foreign bodies. Conclusion: This case highlights the fact that both a deliberate and an accidental foreign body in an adult nasal cavity can get impacted as well as the significance for its early removal.