A retrospective study of flexible bronchoscopic retrieval of airway foreign bodies in adults

Unlike in children, foreign body aspiration in adults is an uncommon occurrence. The clinical presentation is often nonspecific, with a myriad of symptoms and radiological abnormalities. These cases can mimic chronic lung conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, thereby delaying definitive diagnosis and timely interventions. We conducted a retrospective analysis of the bronchoscopy suite database (January 2022 to December 2025) to identify cases subjected to flexible bronchoscopy for suspicion of a foreign body. Data on demographics, clinical symptoms, radiological findings, type of foreign body, retrieval methods, and procedure-related complications were retrieved and analyzed. During the study period, a total of 1679 flexible bronchoscopies were performed. Of these, 12 (0.71%) were done for suspected foreign body aspiration. A foreign body was identified in 10 cases (83.33%), and in eight cases (80%), the foreign body was successfully retrieved using a flexible bronchoscope. The mean age of the study population was 48.38±20.23 years, with a female preponderance (62.5%). The most common radiological presentation was atelectasis, and direct visualization of foreign bodies was found in five cases (627.5%). Organic foreign bodies were commonly identified (87.5% of cases); among them, betel nut was the most common foreign body. Grasping forceps and Dormia baskets were the most commonly used instruments, with no major complications. Foreign body aspiration in adults is a rare clinical entity, and a high index of suspicion is required to identify such cases. Flexible bronchoscopy is the modality of choice for diagnosis and retrieval of foreign bodies with a high success rate and minimal complications.