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Sri Venus Gastro & Liver HospitalSri VenusGastro & Liver
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Procedure

Endoscopic Foreign Body Removal

Non-surgical removal of accidentally swallowed objects — 24×7.

Overview

Accidentally swallowed objects — coins, pins, batteries, fish bones, bone fragments — can usually be removed through an endoscope without surgery. The procedure is fast, requires no incisions, and patients typically go home the same day. Time matters with certain objects (especially button batteries and sharp items), so we treat these as urgent and offer 24×7 availability.

When it’s recommended

  • Accidentally swallowed coin, pin, magnet, or battery
  • Fish bone or bone fragment lodged in the throat or food pipe
  • Food impaction (food stuck in the oesophagus)
  • Sharp object swallowed — open safety pin, needle, glass
  • Any swallowed button battery — always urgent

What to expect

A thin endoscope is passed through the mouth to locate the object. Specialised tools attached to the scope grasp it and bring it out safely. Most procedures take 15–30 minutes. Sedation keeps you calm and comfortable throughout.

Preparation

This is typically an emergency or urgent procedure — come straight to the hospital. Don't eat or drink anything from the time of swallowing. We'll evaluate quickly and proceed without delay if needed.

Recovery

Most patients can resume soft foods within a few hours and return to normal by the next day. Mild throat soreness is common and settles quickly.

This is general information, not a substitute for medical advice. For guidance specific to your case, please consult Dr. Ch. Saikumar or another qualified specialist.

Patient questions

Endoscopic Foreign Body Removal — common questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about endoscopic foreign body removal.

How quickly should I come if I swallowed something?
For most objects, same day is good. For button batteries, sharp objects (open pins, needles, glass), or objects causing pain or inability to swallow, come immediately or call 98499 47373 — these are time-sensitive.
When are swallowed batteries dangerous?
Button batteries are an emergency — they can cause caustic burns to the food pipe within 2–4 hours of becoming lodged. Don't wait. Come straight to the hospital or the nearest ER if the hospital is far.
Can sharp objects be removed safely?
Yes. Specialised endoscopic tools allow safe retrieval of pins, needles, and other sharp objects without surgery in most cases.
Is the procedure painful?
You'll receive sedation and be comfortable throughout. Most procedures take 15–30 minutes.
Will I need to stay overnight?
Most patients go home the same day after a short observation period. Cases involving injury to the food pipe may need overnight monitoring.
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