KUMJ | VOL. 23 | NO. 3 | ISSUE 91 | JULY-SEPTEMBER, 2025

Profile of Pediatric patients with Foreign Body Aspiration requiring Bronchoscopy in a Tertiary Care Center
Paneru M, Nepal A, Yadav D, Dangol B, Shrestha N, Maharjan L, Maharjan R

Abstract:
Background Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a common pediatric emergency, particularly in children under five, due to immature airway protection reflexes and their tendency to explore objects orally. It is the fourth leading cause of accidental death in children under three, making early diagnosis and prompt management crucial. Objective To assess the profile of pediatric patients requiring bronchoscopy, identify associated clinical presentations, evaluate complications, identify the types of foreign bodies, and the most frequent site of lodgment. Method Clinical data of three years, from April 2021 to April 2024, were retrospectively collected from medical records. The study included children below 14 years of age who underwent rigid bronchoscopy for suspected foreign body aspiration at a tertiary care center. Their clinical profiles and various presenting symptoms were analyzed. Result Among 37 cases, the highest incidence (43.2%) was in children aged 1-3 years, with males comprising 73%. Cough and wheezing were the most common symptoms (19 cases). Organic foreign bodies, mainly peanuts and beans, were found in 22 cases, while metallic sharp objects (pins) were present in 5 cases. The right main bronchus was the most affected site (22 cases), and post-procedural pneumonia developed in 5 cases. Conclusion Foreign body Aspiration predominantly affects young children, with organic objects being the most common. Rigid bronchoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the need for early intervention to prevent complications.
Keyword : Airway obstruction, Bronchoscopy, Foreign bodies, Pediatrics, Respiratory aspiration