Which areas of the GI tract lead to problems in the passage of foreign bodies?
- Several areas of anatomic or physiologic narrowing exist along the GI lumen and may compromise the spontaneous passage of foreign bodies: cricopharyngeal muscle, extrinsic compression of the middle esophagus from the aortic arch, lower esophageal sphincter, pylorus, ileocecal valve, rectal valves of Houston, and anal sphincters.
- In addition, numerous pathologic abnormalities, such as strictures or tumors, may impair spontaneous passage of foreign bodies
