Fatal Traumatic Ingestion of a Radiolucent Dental Prosthesis

Abstract

TRACHEOESOPHAGEAL fistula has been reported after both trauma and the ingestion of foreign bodies. A patient in whom both causes can be implicated presents an unusual clinical challenge. The unique nature of the foreign body, a completely radiolucent dental prosthesis, did not permit accurate diagnosis during life.Case ReportJ.B. (B.M.H.C. 555676), a 24-year-old Negro, was admitted to the hospital because of sudden coughing and vomiting of blood. In the emergency room a ventilatory arrest occurred after he aspirated large amounts of bloody material. Nine months previously he had been unconscious and suffered skull and nasal fractures after an automobile . . .