The snare technique: a novel atraumatic method for the removal of difficult nasal foreign bodies.

BACKGROUND: Nasal foreign bodies (NFBs) are a common occurrence, particularly in children between 2 and 4 years old. Many techniques have been developed to remove NFBs, though intranasal batteries, in particular, possess characteristics such as round shape, smooth surface, and limited visibility that make attempts at removal significantly more difficult. In the context of intranasal batteries, a considerable local soft tissue reaction and potential necrosis may exist to further complicate removal.

OBJECTIVE: To present a technique for removal of difficult intranasal foreign bodies that may be utilized by health care practitioners, particularly in the Emergency Department setting.

CASE REPORT: We present a case of a 4-year-old child presenting with intranasal battery with mucosal necrosis. After conventional techniques failed, we utilized a novel wire snare technique to dissect the NFB free from the nasal mucosa safely and in an atraumatic fashion.

CONCLUSION: This technique is noted to be a rapid, atraumatic, and effective means for the removal of difficult NFBs.