Saudi Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SJMPS)
Volume-12 | Issue-04 | 252-256
Original Research Article
Foreign Bodies of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract: Epidemiology and Management
H. El Hiouy, H. Oubella, M. Cherkaoui, S. Mechhor, H. El Bacha, N. Benzzoubeir, I. Errabih
Published : April 30, 2026
Abstract
Foreign body ingestion of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a frequent cause of emergency endoscopy. Although most ingested foreign bodies pass spontaneously, some require urgent intervention to prevent serious complications. We conducted a retrospective monocentric study over three years (May 2022–July 2025) including all patients admitted for emergency upper GI endoscopy for foreign body ingestion at CHU Ibn Sina Rabat. Among 506 emergency endoscopies, 42 cases (8.3%) were performed for foreign body extraction. The mean age was 39 years, with a male predominance. Food impaction was the most common cause. The esophagus was the most frequent location. Endoscopic extraction was successful in most cases, while a minority required surgical intervention. Early endoscopic management adapted to the type and location of the foreign body ensures high success rates and reduces complications.