Clinical Analysis of Denture Impaction in the Esophagus of Adults

Denture impacted in the esophagus of adults has been a complex foreign body for otolaryngologists. We reviewed clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of these patients and evaluated computed tomography (CT) scans to identify a better method of dealing with such tricky situations. Twenty-nine patients who underwent rigid esophagoscopy were included in this retrospective study conducted at the University hospital. The patients underwent preoperative tests and examinations, including complete blood count, blood type and coagulation, electrocardiogram, and CT. The commonest symptoms were retrosternal pain, dysphagia, and odynophagia. Duration of the foreign body impacted within 24 h was 65.5%. CT findings revealed that 4 of 24 cases had complications in the upper esophagus, with 3 of the 4 cases in the mid-esophagus and 1 in the lower esophagus. Complications were related to the duration and location of the obstruction (P < 0.05). The location and complications based on CT findings were coherent with rigid esophagoscopy findings. Denture impaction in the esophagus can be fatal. Early intervention is crucial for prognosis. CT is used for diagnosing and guiding doctors in managing. The commonest location of impacted dentures was the upper esophagus with a lower incidence of complications. The incidence of an impacted denture in the mid-esophagus was low but with a high risk of complications. The incidence of an impacted denture in the lower esophagus was rare. Surgery and proper treatment ensure a good prognosis.