Mangaluru Infant's Life Saved in Critical Airway Emergency at AJ Hospital
In a remarkable medical achievement, an eight-month-old infant girl received successful emergency treatment at AJ Hospital and Research Centre in Mangaluru after a swallowed toy became dangerously lodged in her upper airway and food passage. The infant had been referred to the facility following multiple unsuccessful attempts elsewhere to remove the foreign object.
Critical Symptoms and Immediate Response
Upon arrival at AJ Hospital, the infant presented with alarming symptoms including bleeding from both nose and mouth, noticeable voice changes, and marked irritability. Despite these concerning signs, medical professionals noted the baby remained haemodynamically stable, providing a crucial window for intervention.
An urgent X-ray examination of the neck and chest was immediately performed to assess the situation. Based on the radiographic findings, the medical team made the critical decision to transfer the infant directly to the endoscopy suite for emergency intervention without any delay.
Precision Medical Procedure and Multidisciplinary Teamwork
Dr. Akshatha Shetty, paediatric intensivist at AJ Hospital, performed indirect laryngoscopy which successfully identified the impacted foreign body. Through careful and precise technique, Dr. Shetty managed to remove the lodged toy completely.
Following the initial removal, Dr. Prasad BS, paediatric gastroenterologist, conducted a detailed check endoscopy to ensure no fragments remained and to assess for any internal injuries that might have occurred during the incident or previous removal attempts.
Hospital authorities emphasized that this successful outcome resulted from coordinated multidisciplinary teamwork involving multiple specialists and support staff.Comprehensive Medical Support System
The procedure benefited from valuable support provided by Dr. Meghana, paediatrician, and Dr. Sambhram, postgraduate resident, working in conjunction with the dedicated endoscopy team, casualty staff, PICU nursing team, and anaesthesia technician. This collaborative approach ensured comprehensive care throughout the emergency.
Following the successful intervention, the infant responded well to treatment and remained stable during observation in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU). After appropriate monitoring, the child was safely discharged from hospital care.
Important Medical Warning for Parents and Caregivers
Dr. Prashanth Marla K, medical director of AJ Hospital and Research Centre, issued a crucial warning to parents and caregivers regarding foreign body ingestion incidents. "Immediate medical attention is absolutely essential when foreign body ingestion is suspected," stated Dr. Marla.
Hospital authorities specifically cautioned against repeated or forceful removal attempts by untrained individuals, noting that such actions can cause serious internal injuries, significant bleeding, or potentially fatal airway compromise. The medical team emphasized that professional intervention provides the safest approach to these dangerous situations.
This case highlights both the dangers of foreign body ingestion in infants and the critical importance of specialized paediatric emergency services available at facilities like AJ Hospital and Research Centre in Mangaluru.
