Teen Tailor's Shocking Misfortune

In a bizarre turn of events, an 18-year-old male tailor from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, found himself in a life-threatening situation after accidentally swallowing a sewing needle while hard at work. For five agonizing days, he struggled with severe pain and an inability to swallow solid food.

Double Trouble: A Metal Slip-Up

Desperate to help, family members attempted to retrieve the needle using a flat metal object, only for it to slip and become stuck in the boy's throat. Despite these alarming symptoms, the patient did not experience abdominal pain, swelling, or other respiratory issues, remaining surprisingly stable throughout the ordeal.

Emergency Intervention and Swift Recovery

Upon medical evaluation, the young man displayed stable vitals, prompting immediate action by the anesthesia team. Sedation with IV propofol and fentanyl set the stage for a critical endoscopic procedure. The medical team swiftly located a sharp rectangular piece of metal wedged in his esophagus, as well as the elusive sewing needle nestled in the third part of his duodenum.

A Successful Endoscopic Extraction

Using a specially adapted overtube and rat-toothed forceps, the doctors successfully retrieved both foreign objects without complications. Following the procedure, the patient’s vital signs remained stable, and he gradually returned to health.

A Common Yet Overlooked Danger

Foreign body ingestion is an urgent concern, especially among children and individuals with mental health issues. While many ingested objects can pass through the digestive system naturally, some – like metal items and fish bones – pose serious threats.

Endoscopic Procedures: A Safer Solution

Advancements in endoscopy have transformed the management of foreign body ingestion, enabling doctors to avoid surgery in most cases. The technique not only ensures safer removal but also helps diagnose other potential ailments, showcasing its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods.

The Need for Timely Treatment

For patients experiencing severe esophageal obstruction or ingestion of sharp objects, urgent endoscopic intervention is crucial. Surgical intervention remains a last resort, typically needed only in the rare event of perforation.

Conclusion: Awareness is Key

This dramatic incident underscores the importance of awareness regarding the dangers of foreign object ingestion. As endoscopic techniques evolve, they provide a lifeline for many in need, allowing them to bypass surgical interventions and recover safely.