
Can The Epiglottis Move If An Object Is Pulled Out Of The Oesophagus?

A foreign body or piece of food stuck in the esophagus is relatively uncommon but does sometimes happen. It is a very uncomfortable occurrence because the patient would be unable to clear any secretions or swallow.
Generally if the item cannot be cleared a physician such as a gastroenterologist can look inside the esophagus with a device and possibly retrieve it. If it is a piece of food it is usually soft enough that it can be pulled back through the throat and pass the epiglottis with no problem. Remember - the epiglottis closes over the trachea with swallowing to prevent leakage of secretions into the wind pipe.
So in summary yes it would certainly be possible for a doctor to retrieve an item from the esophagus safely and effectively in a scenario such as you described.
Thank you again for submitting your query. I hope you found my answer to be both hekpful and informative. If you have additional concerns I would be happy to address them.
Sincerely,
Dr. Galamaga


Answers to your questions:
1)Yes the item can cause the epiglottis to move even without the person swallowing as it is removed.
2)Yes it is possible to swallow if a small item is stuck in the esophagus as long as that item is not completely obstructing the esophagus.
3)It is highly unlikely that you would swallow a gum shield if it is fitted and worn properly. In the unlikely event that you did swallow the shield beyond the epiglottis you would have to see a specialist to have to see a specialist immediately to have it removed. There is no way to predict exacty what would happen in these hypothetical situations. I can say with confidence however that a situation where a boxer swallows a gum shield is rare enough that I have never seen it nor have any of my partner physicians.
Thanks again for submitting your question and clarifications. I hope these have been adequately answered for you. If you have any additional concerns Inwould be happy to address them.
Sincerely,
Dr. Galamaga

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