A 78-year-old Mumbai resident, Mr. Shah (name changed), recently underwent a delicate and life-saving procedure at Zen Multispeciality Hospital after a dental cap accidentally slipped into his windpipe during a routine dental visit. The cap was later discovered lodged in the right main bronchus, one of the airways leading to the right lung. Acting swiftly, a team led by Dr. Abhijit Ahuja, Interventional Pulmonologist and Chest Medicine Specialist, successfully removed the object through bronchoscopy within minutes, preventing a potentially fatal complication.
Routine Dental Visit Turns into a Medical Emergency
Mr. Shah visited his dentist for a simple dental cap fitting—a standard procedure that unexpectedly turned dangerous. During the treatment, he accidentally inhaled the small metallic dental cap when it slipped. Since the dentist had numbed his throat with local anesthesia (Lignocaine spray), he felt no immediate discomfort and didn’t realize the object had traveled deep into his airway.
Soon after, he began experiencing uneasiness. A CT scan revealed that the cap had become lodged inside his right main bronchus, dangerously close to blocking his airway. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the dentist and the patient rushed to Zen Multispeciality Hospital. The emergency medical team immediately prepared for an urgent bronchoscopy procedure.
Quick, Precise Intervention Saves the Patient
Dr. Ahuja explained, “The patient came to us with a dental cap lodged in the right main bronchus—one of the lung’s major airways. We immediately assembled our team of anesthetists and endoscopy technicians to perform a flexible bronchoscopy under local anesthesia with mild sedation.”
Using a thin bronchoscope equipped with a camera, the team visualized the metallic cap inside the airway. With endoscopic forceps, they carefully extracted the object in less than 10 minutes, avoiding any surgical incision. “The procedure was smooth, safe, and minimally invasive. Since there was no injury or infection, the patient recovered completely and was discharged the next day,” Dr. Ahuja said. He emphasized that early recognition and timely intervention were crucial for the successful outcome.
Rare but Serious Medical Incidents
Dr. Ahuja noted that such cases, though rare, are well-documented in medical literature. “During dental procedures, local anesthesia suppresses throat reflexes, increasing the risk of accidental aspiration if small objects slip backward,” he explained. “This case highlights the need for both patients and dental practitioners to remain alert. Any suspected aspiration should be immediately investigated—no matter how minor it may seem.”
He warned that foreign bodies can remain undetected in the lungs for months or even years. Such cases may sometimes lead to recurrent infections or pneumonia. He added, “At Zen Hospital, we are equipped with advanced endoscopic and pulmonary care technologies, enabling us to manage complex airway and respiratory emergencies efficiently. Having a highly skilled team and state-of-the-art facilities allows us to respond quickly and deliver safe, patient-centered care.”
Patient Expresses Relief and Gratitude
Sharing his experience, Mr. Shah said, “I was shocked when I found out that my dental cap had gone into my lung. I didn’t even feel it happen. My dentist immediately advised me to get a CT scan, and we rushed to Zen Hospital. The doctors explained everything clearly and performed the procedure so quickly that I felt no pain at all. I’m deeply grateful to the entire team for their expertise and care. I feel completely fine now.”
Emphasizing Awareness and Preparedness
The press release highlights how this case emphasizes the need for greater awareness during dental procedures. It also stresses the importance of prompt medical intervention in airway emergencies. Zen Hospital’s rapid response and medical precision swiftly resolved a potentially life-threatening situation. The incident reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to safety, speed, and compassionate care.