Rigid bronchoscopy is the gold standard management of inhaled foreign bodies in children: myth or maxim?

Foreign body inhalation carries potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Technological advances in imaging and flexible endoscopes have challenged the status of rigid bronchoscopy as the gold standard for inhaled foreign body management. This review of the assessment and management of inhaled foreign bodies focuses on tracheobronchial foreign bodies in children. Myths surrounding clinical assessment, use of radiography and procedures for addressing foreign bodies are sequentially deconstructed using evidence from the literature. If foreign body aspiration is suspected, prompt intervention is required to minimise sequelae of delayed diagnosis. The threshold for bronchoscopy should be low, with rigid techniques remaining the gold standard, and maintenance of these skills essential.