Pediatric Bronchoscopy (Foreign Body Removal)
Dr. Bhadoo has more than 15 years of experience which includes clinical work, academics, and research.
Our Services
What is Pediatric Bronchoscopy?
Pediatric bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to look inside a child’s airway (Windpipe/Trachea and Bronchus) using a thin, flexible or rigid tube with a camera. It’s often used to find and remove foreign objects that have been inhaled or lodged in the airway, a common life-saving emergency in children.
Why Foreign Body Removal is Needed
Young children, especially under the age of 5 years, are naturally curious and tend to explore the world by putting things in their mouth. Sometimes, these objects accidentally enter the airway/windpipe instead of the esophagus/foodpipe, causing breathing difficulty and can be life-threatening.
Commonly Inhaled Objects and Causes
- Accidental inhalation of small objects such as: Nuts, seeds, popcorn, candy, Coins, beads, buttons, Small toy parts, pen caps
- Medical conditions that increase aspiration risk, such as swallowing disorders or neuromuscular diseases
- Poor chewing ability in younger children due to underdeveloped teeth or motor skills
Symptoms of a Foreign Body in Airway
- Sudden coughing or choking episode
- Persistent cough not responding to medical treatment
- Wheezing or whistling sound during breathing
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Hoarse voice or loss of voice
- Bluish skin (cyanosis) or loss of consciousness in severe cases
- Fever (due to lung infection/pneumonia)
Important: Sometimes symptoms appear hours or days later if the inhalation was not witnessed. This can lead to delay in diagnosis.
Treatment – Bronchoscopy for Foreign Body Removal
Diagnosis
- Chest X-ray – may show the object or signs of lung collapse/infection
- CT Scan – for cases coming late to hospital
- Bronchoscopy – both diagnostic and therapeutic
Procedure
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Bronchoscope is inserted through the mouth into the airways
- The foreign body (inhaled object) is located using a tiny camera and removed with specialized instruments
- The airway is checked for injury or infection
Recovery
- Most children recover quickly and can go home the same or next day
- Antibiotics may be prescribed if infection is present
- Follow-up visit to ensure normal lung function
Our Approach to Care
- Rapid Response – immediate evaluation and treatment to prevent complications
- Child-Centered Care – specialized pediatric anesthesia and gentle handling to reduce stress
- Team Expertise – collaboration between pediatric surgeon, pediatric intensivist, and anesthesiologist
- Family Involvement – clear communication before, during, and after the procedure
- Advanced Technology – high-definition bronchoscopes designed specifically for newborn babies and older children
- Post-Procedural Support – monitoring, preventive parental education, and follow-up to ensure best outcome for these children
Meet Dr. D. Bhadoo – Expert Pediatric Surgeon in Jaipur
Dr. D. Bhadoo is a renowned Pediatric Surgeon at Kidsurg Clinic, Jaipur, specialized in airway and thoracic procedures like pediatric bronchoscopy. He has vast experience in managing complex cases involving inhaled foreign bodies, airway obstructions, and congenital airway anomalies of newborn babies and children. Known for his precision and child-friendly approach, Dr. Bhadoo ensures timely diagnosis and optimal treatment of such cases. His work has saved countless lives by providing rapid expert care in critical airway emergencies. Dr. Bhadoo is personally involved in each step of treatment of these children from emergency visit till complete recovery and long-term follow up to ensure safety, effective care—helping children recover quickly and enjoy healthy, active lives.