title: Removal of a partial denture from the esophagus with the aid of an endoscope.
abstract: Swallowed prostheses have been described in the literature, and in some cases, the diagnosis can be challenging, especially if the partial or complete denture is metal-free. This article presents a case of a swallowed partial denture and points to the importance of early diagnosis. A man was admitted to the emergency room complaining of progressive breathing difficulty while presenting with an extra volume in his neck. After inconclusive image examinations, endoscopy under sedation was used to identify and retrieve the foreign object, which was a metal-free acrylic partial denture. Early diagnosis and the correct treatment can avoid serious sequelae, such as edematous reactions, mucosal infection, and necrosis. Patients should be scheduled for regular recall visits for evaluation of prosthesis fit and retention, condition of the abutments, and nocturnal wear.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Pathology and Diagnosis, School of Dentistry, University of Taubaté, SP, Brazil. mscamp30@gmail.com
authors.forename: Marcia S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Campos
authors.forename: Fabio D
authors.initials: FD
authors.lastname: Nunes
authors.forename: Renato Soares
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Godoy
authors.forename: Laerte
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Rodrigues
authors.forename: Elio H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Shinohara
mesh_terms: D003832:Denture, Partial, Removable; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D019723:Endoscopes; D004947:Esophagus; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000628:therapy