Why is this procedure done?
A nasal foreign body is caused by something getting stuck in the nose. Children sometimes put small objects in their noses. Some of these objects include food, disc batteries, beads, cotton, magnets, tissue, clay, erasers, seeds, coins, buttons, and small toys such as marbles. This procedure is done to remove the foreign object. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
A drug may be needed to relax or make your child sleepy. The doctor may also use a numbing drug inside your childs nose before the foreign body is removed. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
Treatment depends on the type of foreign body and where it is located in your childs nose. A number of ways may be used to remove the foreign body. ‚
- Pressure ¢ ˆ ’ Once it is known which side of the nose has the foreign body, direct pressure can be put on the other nostril while your child blows gently through the nose. The doctor may use a bag device to put on pressure. This sometimes forces the object out of the nose. A suction machine may be used to remove an object from your child's nose as well.
- Tools ¢ ˆ ’ A tool that can grab the foreign body, such as forceps, may be used to remove the object. A hook with a curve may also be used to scoop out a foreign body. These types of tools are often used when the foreign body is near the opening of the nose. For magnet removal, special tools may be needed.
- Catheter ¢ ˆ ’ A catheter is a thin tube that can be put into your child's nose. Some catheters have a balloon on the end that can be filled with air once the tube is past the foreign body. As the tube is gently pulled out, it may force the foreign body out of your child's nose. This works well for smooth objects that do not fully block the nose.
What follow-up care is needed?
The doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your childs progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
Helpful tips
- If you cannot see an object in your childs nose, do not try to remove it. Talk with your doctor.
- Do not use cotton swabs or tweezers to remove a foreign body. You may push the object farther into your child's nose or cause damage to the nasal tissue.
- If your child can help, have your child breathe through the mouth. Try to keep your child from breathing in quickly or sharply. This may force the foreign body more into the nose.
- Once you know which side of the nose has the foreign body, gently press the other nostril shut. Then, have your child blow the nose gently. If the foreign body does not come out, take your child to the doctor.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Otolaryngology ¢ ˆ ’ Head and Neck Surgery ‚
http://www.entnet.org/healthinformation ‚
American Family Physician ‚
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/1015/p1185.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚