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Navi Mumbai Man Accidentally Swallows Toothbrush; Doctors Extract Without Surgery

A 19-centimetre toothbrush lodged in a Mumbai resident's oesophagus was successfully removed through an endoscopic procedure, avoiding the need for surgical intervention.

LSN India · 4 November 2026

Doctors at a Navi Mumbai hospital have successfully extracted a toothbrush from a patient's oesophagus using advanced endoscopic techniques, marking a rare case of foreign body ingestion handled without invasive surgery.

The 19-centimetre brush became lodged in the patient's throat during routine dental hygiene. Medical staff at the facility responded swiftly, recognising the potential complications posed by the foreign object and moving to address the situation promptly.

The endoscopic procedure proved effective in retrieving the toothbrush through the patient's mouth, demonstrating the capabilities of modern minimally invasive medical techniques. The approach eliminated the risks typically associated with surgical removal, including longer recovery times and post-operative complications.

Cases of toothbrush ingestion remain uncommon, though medical professionals note that foreign body swallowing constitutes a recurring concern in clinical practice. The successful resolution underscores the importance of immediate medical attention when such incidents occur, as timely intervention can prevent serious gastrointestinal complications.

The patient was discharged following the procedure with no reported complications.