New Delhi: A team of doctors at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital successfully removed a denture lodged in a man’s food pipe using an advanced laser-assisted endoscopic procedure, preventing the need for major surgery.
The case, managed in early April 2026 and confirmed by hospital officials on April 3, highlights a rare and high-risk medical emergency handled with a minimally invasive and innovative approach.
The patient, described as a middle-aged man, reached the hospital after several hours of discomfort with alarming symptoms that included difficulty swallowing, severe throat pain, chest discomfort, and respiratory distress.
Doctors found that the denture had become stuck in the upper part of the esophagus, close to the airway. Imaging confirmed that the object was firmly embedded in the esophageal wall. Its sharp metallic clasps significantly increased the risk of internal injury, including tearing or perforation.
Dr. Anil Arora, Chairman of the Institute of Liver, Gastroenterology and Pancreaticobiliary Sciences, described the case as one of the most challenging foreign body removals.
He explained that standard endoscopic tools such as forceps and snares were not suitable because they could have caused severe damage to the esophagus. Initial attempts using conventional techniques did not succeed, forcing the team to consider an alternative strategy.
The medical team proceeded with an innovative laser-assisted endoscopic procedure. Using precise laser energy, doctors carefully fragmented the denture into smaller pieces while it remained inside the esophagus.
They then inserted a protective overtube to shield the surrounding tissue and safely retrieved each fragment without causing further injury.
Dr. Shrihari Anikhindi, Consultant in Gastroenterology, noted that this approach allowed controlled removal in a confined and sensitive area.
Doctors highlighted that cases like this can often require invasive surgical intervention, including opening the chest in severe situations. Such procedures carry higher risks, longer recovery periods, and potential complications.
By using the laser-based endoscopic technique, the team avoided surgery entirely and managed the case through a minimally invasive route.
Following the procedure, the patient recovered well and did not require any further surgical treatment. Doctors confirmed that timely intervention and the use of advanced technology were key to the successful outcome.