Fish Hook Removal -When to Refer a Patient to a Specialist for Removal

Are you evaluating a patient with a fish hook injury?

Yes

Is a fish hook embedded?

• in or near the eye?

Yes

• near an artery?

Yes

• near a tendon?

Yes

• near a major nerve?

Yes

• in the hypopharynx?

Yes

• in an unusual place that is difficult to safely access?

Yes

• in or near an embedded medical device that might damaged during the hook removal?

Yes

Has the patient swallowed a fish hook?

Yes

Has the patient developed a serious complication while trying to remove or removing a fish hook?

Yes

When to Refer a Patient with an Embedded Fish Hook to a Specialist for Removal