Foreign bodies

March 2018 | by EMauthor


Always think of the possibility of foreign body in wounds and send for x-ray if they are radio-opaque

oIf in doubt whether the foreign is radio-opaque then x-ray

Cover the wound with minimum or no dressing before sending to x-ray to enhance detection

In certain sites Ultrasound scan can be helpful in localising FB, seek senior advice

Most foreign bodies have to be removed, seek senior advice if you lack the experience

Wooden foreign bodies must always be removed

Bloodless field is essential in looking for foreign bodies, use finger tourniquet or sphygmomanometer for the arm

Some foreign body may not need removal such as tiny little glass or metal FB deeply embedded in the buttock. Discuss these cases with consultant

It will be difficult to remove foreign bodies embedded deeply in the sole of foot.  All these wounds should be referred to the plastic surgery unit

oThis is via Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust (Broomfield hospital). Usually a referral via TRIPS telemedicine portal is helpful, but not always necessary depending on urgency

oThe dedicated imaging camera is located in the ED Nurse-in-Charge office and must be signed out

oConsent the patient for image transfers


 Contact details for referrals
Broomfield Hospital 01245 362000, ask for 'plastics referrals'
trips.nhs.uk


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