occurs much less frequently in adults than in children
Older adults and denture wearers appear to be at greatest risk
Wider familiarity with the Heimlich maneuver has reduced deaths
If the maneuver is unsuccessful, cricothyrotomy may be necessary
Plain chest radiographs may reveal a radiopaque foreign body
Detection of radiolucent foreign bodies may be aided by inspiration-expiration films that demonstrate air trapping distal to the obstructed segment
Atelectasis and pneumonia may occur later
Tracheal and bronchial foreign bodies should be removed under general anesthesia with rigid bronchoscopy by a skilled endoscopist working with an experienced anesthesiologist