An unusual case of trauma: a toothbrush embedded in the buccal mucosa.
Severe trauma from a toothbrush is unusual in childhood. This case report illustrates a case where a toothbrush was so embedded in the buccal soft tissues that it needed to be removed under a general anaesthetic. Other cases are outlined where life-threatening conditions rapidly arose following toothbrush trauma to the oro-pharynx, both patients having been initially discharged without treatment from a casualty department. Apparently minor oro-pharyngeal lacerations should be approached with caution when a penetrating injury from a toothbrush or any object has occurred.
Moran
A J
AJ
Scarborough General Hospital, North Yorkshire.
D000058:Accidental Falls; D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000293:injuries; D000768:Anesthesia, General; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005152:Facial Muscles / Q000293:injuries; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D014099:Toothbrushing / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery