Surgery of intra-bronchic foreign bodies.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of surgical treatment of intra-bronchic foreign bodies after unsuccessful endoscopic extraction. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients underwent surgical treatment of intra-bronchic foreign bodies in our department during a period of 10 years, There was 9 males and 6 females, the mean age was 20.27 years (range between 5 and 39 years), there were 8 right localizations and 7 left. The recurrent pulmonary infections were most frequent complaint of patients. Results: Twelve pulmonary resections (including one pneumonectomy) were necessary because of the importance of pulmonary parenchyma destruction. There was one post-operative complication (one empyema) and the peri-operative mortality was nul. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of intra-bronchic foreign bodies must be used only after unsuccessful endoscopic extraction. The preventive measures are the best treatment. (C) 2002 editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.