iarjmsIARJMSIARJMS2708-359410.47310/iarjms.2021.v02i01.059Swallowed Foreign Bodies in the University Of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital; Profile and Challenges in ManagementIbekweMatildaUjuOghenekaroEdirinJephtaKpopeneEar Nose And Throat Surgery Department, University Of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Port Harcourt, Rivers State, NigeriaBackground: Swallowed foreign bodies are not uncommon in a typical ORL practice and could be wrought with a lot of challenges in the management. This study is therefore to determine the pattern, presentation and outline their management and challenges encountered. Methodology: A retrospective review of all patients diagnosed of foreign body ingestion seen in the ENT surgery department of UPTH within the period of 2016 to 2020. The patients’ records, clinic, ward and theatre register were the source of the data. The biodata, presenting complaints, management and outcome were collected and analysed. Diagnosis was made on the basis of history, clinical findings, radiological evaluation and confirmed at surgery. Results: There was a total of 32 subjects; 19 males and 13 females. The age 1-10 years were the most affected; 46.9%. Fish bone was the commonest object and was seen both in children and adults while dentures were the second commonest and found only in adults. About 31.3% of the foreign bodies were seen as radiopaque on x-ray while 17.5% were diagnosed based on presence of soft signs. .Most had emergency oesophagoscopy; 87.5%. Failed oesophagoscopy was recorded in 3.1%. Conclusion:Swallowed foreign body is commoner in children and males are more affected. Fish bone and dentures are the objects commonly swallowed. While dentures is seen more in adults, toy parts, button batteries and other small objects are commonly seen in children