Scarf Pin Inhalation in Young Girls: Atypical Type of Foreign Body Inhalation

Abstract

Background: To study the causes and pattern of
scarf pin inhalation in young girls
Methods: In this descriptive study patients, with a
history of scarf pin inhalation, were included. A
detailed history of onset, duration and time between
inhalation and presentation to hospital was taken.
Comprehensive physical examination was carried
out in all patients to recognize any cardio respiratory
complications. The precise anatomical location and
position of the pin was determined by chest x-ray.
All the procedures were performed under general
anaesthesia after proper preoperative assessment.
Bronchoscope was introduced by classic technique
under standard anaesthetic monitoring assisted
ventilation. The scarf pin was visualized and
retrieved by grasping forceps of appropriate length
and design. Repeat rigid bronchoscopy was done,
where required. Chest x-ray was repeated in all
patients to see any complications. Patients were
discharged in stable condition after 24 of surgery.
Results: Total 33 female patients were included in
study with history of pin inhalation. Mean age
(years) in the study was 16.74+2 ranging in age from
12 to 30 years. The most frequent presenting
complaints were cough and foreign body sensation
in throat. Out of 33 cases, 12(36.36%) were in left
main bronchus, 8 (24.24%) were in right main
bronchus and 6 (18.18%) scarf pin were impacted in
trachea.
Conclusion: Scarf pin inhalation is a life
threatening condition which is more common in
muslim females due to hijab. Scarf pin inhalation in
females can be prevented by increasing public
awareness, prohibiting them from placing pin in
their mouth