Foreign Body Localization

What is a foreign body?

Any alien object that enters the body

What are the most frequently encountered FBs?

• aspirated or swallowed

• penetrated though the skin

• inserted into a body orifice

When imaging FBs, how should your radiographs be done?

Two plate 90 degrees apart (exact PA/AP and lateral)

What is extremely important when imaging FBs?

• small focal spot

• no motion

What type of technique should you use for FBs and why?

Long scale (low contrast, medium to high kVp) in order to see soft tissues

What should you remove when imaging FBs if possible?

Dressings (can cause artifacts)

What do you marks the site of the FB with?

Radiopaque object (BB, paperclip, etc.)

What type of FBs are common with infants and young children?

Aspirated or swallowed

What are some common FBs that are aspirated or swallowed in young children and infants?

• coins

• batteries

• beads

• small toys

What are some common FBs that are aspirated or swallowed in adults?

• bone fragments (chicken or fish)

• solid food plus

• dental appliances

• rings coins

• open safety pins

• tacks

• nails

What is a common procedure for aspirated or swallowed FBs?

Soft tissue neck

What views do you do for a soft tissue neck?

• AP and lateral

• similar to a c-spine but lateral is centered more anteriorly and you have to have the entire nose (including soft tissue) on the image

What type of contrast do you want for a soft tissue neck?

Lower and less density than c-spine

What type of FB is pictured in this image?

Aspirated or swallowed

What are some examples of penetrating FBs?

• needles

• glass

• work or metal splinters

• fish hook

• sometimes surgery tools

• trauma (gunshot, debris, etc)

What type of FB is pictured in this image?

Penetrating

What is inserted FB common on?

Infants and small children (up nose and in ear)

Can inserted FBs be removed without x-rays?

Yes

What type of FB is pictured in this image?

Inserted