We present a retrospective review of 2 cases of unusual foreign bodies and discuss methods needed for successful removal of the objects. The review stresses the need for preparation in managing difficult and unexpected situations. Specific instrumentation as well as surgical resourcefulness provided for successful removal of a carrot fragment in one instance and a plastic bead in the other. The need to individualize tracheobronchial foreign body extraction is stressed, as is the importance of keeping some of the “old-time” instruments in one's instrument cabinet.
