A patient came into the emergency room for complaining that he could not swallow, and possible emergency throat surgery. This is his back story:
He was 21 years old and had 2 missing front teeth. Of course, he wanted to look good and wanted to get dentures. The problem was he lacked funds. Upon the advice of a friend, he went to a “technician” who allegedly sold cheap dentures. Everything was all right until one day, he fell asleep and ACCIDENTALLY SWALLOWED his dentures.
At the emergency room, the patient complained of neck pain and difficulty in swallowing. An ENT doctor referral was then made. Laboratory work up and imaging studies such as xray of the neck were done. The patient was then rushed to the operating room for emergency esophagoscopy (an operation where a tube is passed via your mouth to visualize the esophagus or the swallowing tube).
During the operation however, there was difficulty in removing the dentures because the sharp and jagged edges were buried so deep into the mucosa (inner lining) of the esophagus. A skin incision was subsequently made anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle in the neck to make a lateral pharyngotomy approach (making an incision on the muscles to the side of the esophagus) to removing the dentures stuck into his neck.
MORAL LESSON:
- Always remove your dentures before sleeping.
- Never sacrifice the quality of your dentures for the price. It may end up costing you more.
Experience expert ENT surgical care tailored to your needs.
Book now to schedule your appointment with a skilled ENT surgeon near you and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Your well-being is our top priority.
