An unusual oronasal foreign body.

An unusual case of oronasal foreign body in a child is reported. A plain lateral X-ray of the head was carried out to show the shape and position of the foreign body; it was also useful in planning removal. Ribbon gauze impregnated with vaseline was packed around the sharp end of the metal in the nostril to protect the nasal mucosa from further trauma while removing it. We recommend this technique.