How Did AIIMS Doctors Successfully Extract a 2-Inch Metal Spring from a 14-Month-Old's Food Pipe?
Synopsis
In a remarkable feat of medical expertise, AIIMS doctors successfully removed a dangerous 2-inch metal spring from a 14-month-old girl's food pipe, showcasing the urgency and complexity of pediatric care. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance among parents regarding small objects that can be hazardous to children.
Key Takeaways
AIIMS surgeons perform a complex procedure to save a child's life.
A 2-inch metal spring was lodged in the child's oesophagus.
Endoscopic surgery was used to extract the spring without causing perforation.
Post-surgery, the child's condition improved rapidly.
Parents are advised to monitor small objects to prevent such incidents.
New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) Surgeons at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences executed a challenging medical operation to rescue the life of a 14-month-old girl who had ingested a 2-inch-long metal spring, as reported on Thursday.
The metal spring became lodged in the oesophagus, commonly referred to as the food pipe, and was extracted successfully through endoscopic surgery, according to an official announcement from AIIMS.
The child, from Yamunanagar, was admitted to the hospital after experiencing persistent vomiting for about a week and not eating for two days.
“Upon examination, an X-ray showed a large metal spring trapped in the upper section of the child's oesophagus,” AIIMS stated, “with ulcerations extending along the mucosal lining.”
“The spring was lodged in the upper part of the food pipe and was significantly thicker than typical springs found in pens, measuring approximately half an inch wide and at least 1.5 to 2 inches long,” explained Professor Dr. Vishesh Jain from the Paediatric Surgery Department, in an interview with IANS.
He noted that an attempt to remove it endoscopically at a private facility in Dehradun was made, but due to swelling and lesions in the oesophagus, the procedure was considered too risky, prompting an immediate referral to AIIMS.
Jain and his team utilized advanced endoscopic methods during the operation. The spring was skillfully rotated and extracted, successfully averting any perforations, as stated in the announcement.
“Following the surgery, the child's condition improved swiftly, and she was able to begin oral feeding the very next day,” AIIMS reported.
Jain advised parents to ensure that items such as springs, batteries, coins, and small toy parts are kept out of the reach of young children, as swallowing such objects can have fatal consequences. He also emphasized that if parents notice a child swallowing something, they should seek medical attention immediately to evaluate the size of the object and determine the appropriate course of action.
Point of View
This incident exemplifies the critical role of expert medical teams in handling urgent pediatric cases. The quick action taken by AIIMS doctors to save the young girl's life underscores the importance of advanced medical facilities and the need for heightened awareness among parents regarding potential hazards.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the AIIMS doctors remove from the child?
The doctors successfully extracted a 2-inch-long metal spring from the child's food pipe.
Why was the child admitted to AIIMS?
The child was admitted after experiencing continuous vomiting for a week and not eating for two days.
What advice did the doctors give to parents?
Doctors advised parents to keep small hazardous items out of reach of young children and to seek medical attention immediately if a child swallows something.
