Specialist Doctor II Ho Thi Bich Thuy, from the Center for Endoscopy and Endoscopic Digestive Surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital in TP HCM, performed a gastric endoscopy under anesthesia. She observed a congested gastric lining and found a toothbrush, approximately 1,5 x 20 cm, lodged transversely. This blocked the pylorus, the lower part of the stomach, and obstructed the passage to the intestine.

Ngoc explained that a week prior, she felt something stuck in her throat. She used a toothbrush to try and dislodge it, but her hand slipped, and she accidentally swallowed the brush. Ngoc sought medical attention at a hospital in the US, but an intervention could not be scheduled in a timely manner. As her pain worsened, she decided to return to Vietnam for treatment.

The toothbrush was removed from the patient's stomach. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Thuy explained that the foreign object obstructed the pylorus, preventing food from entering the small intestine and causing post-meal vomiting. This blockage led to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and a potential risk of gastric or duodenal perforation or necrosis.

Doctors used specialized instruments to remove the toothbrush in 15 minutes. Fortunately, the foreign object had not caused any complications. Following the procedure, the patient's abdominal pain and nausea resolved, and she was discharged the same day with medication to aid in the recovery of her gastric lining.

Dr. Thuy performing gastric endoscopy to remove the foreign object for Ngoc. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

"This is the first time I have encountered a foreign object that was a toothbrush," said Dr. Thuy, adding that foreign objects are typically bamboo toothpicks, fish bones, pork bones, dentures, pill casings, coins, or small toys.

If a foreign object is suspected to have been swallowed, it is crucial to seek medical attention at a facility equipped for endoscopy as soon as possible for timely diagnosis and intervention.

Quyen Phan