An unexpected journey of a suction catheter in a preterm neonate

Abstract

Foreign bodies are extremely rare in preterm neonates. The majority are iatrogenic. We describe a neonate of 27 weeks gestation who was found to have an 18 mm long suction catheter at the right main bronchi after resuscitation in another hospital. It was first detected by chest X-ray after endotracheal intubation. Repeat X-ray revealed the catheter moved to the stomach and migrated to the lower gastrointestinal tract in a few hours. The patient was treated conservatively and the catheter was passed out on day 14. Newborn resuscitation may result in iatrogenic foreign body in neonates. Serious complications such as respiratory compromise, perforations or abscess may occur. Early referral to a specialized tertiary center with pediatric surgical service is recommended. We hope our experience demonstrated the importance of preventing iatrogenic foreign body in clinical setting. Access to endoscopic instrumentation for foreign body removal in preterm neonates should be available at all times.