Safety Pin Accidentally Swallowed by 12-Year-Old Girl in Gujarat, Removed via Bronchoscopy
A 12-year-old girl from Modasa in the Aravalli district of Gujarat was rushed to Civil Hospital after she accidentally swallowed a safety pin. The incident occurred while the girl was cleaning a room and had placed a safety pin between her teeth for temporary holding. Due to an unexpected sneeze, she inadvertently ingested the pin, leading to immediate medical concern.
Medical Examination and Discovery
Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors conducted an X-ray examination to assess the situation. The X-ray revealed that the safety pin had become lodged in the girl's respiratory tract, posing a significant risk to her breathing and overall health. This finding prompted urgent medical intervention to prevent potential complications such as choking or internal injury.
Successful Removal Procedure
The medical team at Civil Hospital performed a bronchoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the airways. Using this technique, doctors were able to locate and safely remove the safety pin from the respiratory tract. The procedure was successful, and the girl is reported to be in stable condition following the removal, with no major injuries sustained.
Safety Precautions and Awareness
This incident highlights the importance of safety awareness, especially among children, when handling small objects like pins. Accidental ingestions can occur quickly and unexpectedly, as seen in this case where a simple sneeze led to the ingestion. Parents and caregivers are advised to:
- Keep small items like safety pins out of reach of children.
- Supervise children during activities that involve such objects.
- Seek immediate medical attention if ingestion is suspected, as timely intervention can prevent serious harm.
Medical professionals emphasize that swift action is crucial in such emergencies to ensure positive outcomes, as demonstrated by the successful bronchoscopy in this instance.



