The Journal of Laryngology & Otology: Volume 138 -

Difficult oesophageal foreign body removal: a novel surgical approach to a complex situation
Sabina Dranova, Zohaib Siddiqui, Muhammad Tobbal, Lisa Pitkin
Published online by Cambridge University Press:

15 January 2024, pp. 703-706
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Background
Ingested foreign bodies pose a unique challenge in medical practice, especially when lodged in the oesophagus. While endoscopic retrieval is the standard treatment, certain cases require more innovative approaches.
Methods
This paper reports the case of a patient who intentionally ingested a butter knife that lodged in the thoracic oesophagus. After multiple endoscopic attempts, a lateral neck oesophagotomy, aided using a Hopkins rod camera and an improvised trochar as a protective port, was performed.
Results
The foreign body was successfully extracted without causing oesophageal perforation. The patient was made nil by mouth, with nasogastric feeding only until a swallow assessment after one week. The patient was discharged and recovered well.
Conclusion
This case illustrates a successful, innovative approach to removing a foreign body in a high-risk patient, highlighting the significance of adaptability in surgical practice. It emphasises the need for individualised approaches based on the patient's history, the nature and location of the foreign body, and associated risks.

Treatment of auricular pseudocysts using enhanced negative drainage: a prospective study of 21 cases
G Wang, D Luo, F Song, Z Sun, P Dong, Z Zhu
Published online by Cambridge University Press:

17 August 2023, pp. 349-352
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Objective
Auricular pseudocysts are rare, painless, benign intracartilaginous cysts of the auricle that are not lined by epithelium and have no known aetiology.
Method
This was a prospective study conducted in an ENT department from January 2020 to June 2022. In 21 patients, complete aspiration of the pseudocyst with enhanced negative drainage was performed. They were followed for a minimum of six months.
Results
All patients completely responded to the negative drainage treatment. No cases of recurrence or obvious deformities were observed.
Conclusion
Aspiration with intensified negative drainage was associated with a positive response in patients with auricular pseudocysts. Complete resolution of the swelling can be achieved without any serious complications. Thus, it appears to be a simple and effective method for managing the condition.

The Journal of Laryngology & Otology