ABSTRACT

Tracheobronchial foreign body is uncommon in adults. Its diagnosis depends on history and a high index of suspicion as symptoms and signs are not specific. Chest radiographs may pick up radiopaque foreign body but radiolucent objects may be missed. Flexible fibreoptic bronchoscopy is the diagnostic investigation of choice. Once identified, foreign body should be removed as early as possible. Removal of foreign bodies can be done using either flexible fibreoptic or rigid bronchoscopy.

We report a case of tracheal foreign body (k-file which is used in dental canal treatment) in an adult patient and its removal, as well as a literature review of this topic.