Evaluation of a Symptom-Based Algorithm for Managing Battery Ingestions in Children

Objectives While complications from battery ingestion can be severe, especially with the emergence of stronger battery elements, not all ingestions require prompt removal. We aim to evaluate a symptom-focused algorithm for battery ingestion that emphasizes observation over intervention to investigate its safety. Materials and Methods Patients were identified through a query of foreign-body ingestion radiographs obtained between 2017 and 2020. A retrospective chart review was then performed of all patients who presented with button battery ingestions to identify compliance with our algorithm, overall outcomes, and complications. Results In total, 2% of all radiographs (44/2,237) demonstrated button battery ingestions. The median age of patients was 3.8 years (interquartile range, 2.6–5.3). Most batteries were found in the stomach (64%, n = 28), but were also identified in the esophagus (14%, n = 6), small bowel (14%, n = 6), and colon (9%, n = 4). All esophageal batteries were managed with immediate endoscopic retrieval. Ten gastric batteries were not managed per protocol, with seven admitted for observation despite being asymptomatic and repeat abdominal X-rays demonstrating persistent gastric location of the battery. Four patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy; however, in two patients the battery had migrated past the stomach prior to intervention. All small bowel batteries and three of four asymptomatic colon batteries were managed per protocol; one patient had additional imaging that demonstrated battery passage. Conclusion Adherence to a symptom-focused protocol for conservative management of button battery ingestions beyond the gastroesophageal junction is safe and frequently does not require admission, serial imaging, or intervention.

Endoscopic retrieval of ingested magnets in children and role of magnetic retrievers

Background Various high-powered magnetic toy sets constitute a major hazard as the small magnets can be easily swallowed or aspirated by young children. Multiple ingested magnets or the ingestion of a magnet with another metallic object can pose a serious threat as this may lead to bowel perforation, fistulation, intestinal volvulus, bowel obstruction and death. Main body Retrieval of ingested magnets from the stomach is routinely performed endoscopically but can become a painstaking quest involving many tedious attempts to secure the magnet(s). Historically, pre-routine endoscopy, magnetic retrievers were used under fluoroscopic control for the removal of metallic objects in the stomach. With the advent of endoscopic retrieval instruments, they fell out of favour and are no longer readily available on the market. Despite this, conventional endoscopic instruments are likely to be less effective than endoscopic-assisted magnetic retrievers due to confounding weak bonds which form between the metal retrieval device and the magnet. Preoperative testing, and selection of the retrieval instrument with the strongest coupling effect with a magnet, might be beneficial. A simple, endoscopic-assisted magnetic retriever created in theatre can allow for more effective, time-efficient and safe removal of ingested magnets under direct vision. Conclusion Urgent removal of multiple ingested magnets or a single ingested magnet coupled with another ingested metallic object should be highlighted. Stricter implementation of a widespread ban over loose magnetic toys is needed. Standardised protocols for the surgical management of ingested magnets should be available in every hospital.

EP.TH.691Necrotic Liver Abscess secondary to Duodenal Perforation caused by ingestion of a Fish Bone – A Case Report

Introduction Ingestion of foreign bodies are not uncommon, however enterohepatic migration of fish bones causing liver abscesses remains a rare phenomenon. Case Report We present the case of a 58-year-old female admitted with 11 days history of fever, rigors, shortness of breath and malaise associated with vomiting and diarrhoea. Her COVID-19 rapid antigen test was negative. She was tender in the left lower quadrant of her abdomen and inflammatory markers were markedly high so initial differential diagnosis included colitis and diverticulitis. Contrast Computed Tomography of the abdomen and pelvis showed an 8.1cm irregular hepatic lesion initially thought to be a multi-loculated abscess, malignancy or complex cyst. She was started on broad-spectrum antibiotics, escalated to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and discussed at the hepato-biliary multi-disciplinary team (MDT) where magnetic resonance images demonstrated a perforated duodenum from a 2.5cm fish bone penetrating from the duodenal wall into the liver parenchyma causing a necrotic abscess. She underwent percutaneous drainage of the hepatic abscess. Endoscopic retrieval was then attempted; however, the fish bone was not visualised. Definitive management followed with laparoscopic removal of the fish bone and primary duodenal repair. Discussion Identification of the cause of the abscess during MDT discussion enabled prompt source control which was key in managing intra-abdominal sepsis – radiological drainage in the first instance prevented secondary peritonitis from a potentially ruptured abscess and enabled the patient to be de-escalated from ICU. Previous literature suggests endoscopic retrieval however, laparoscopic surgery remains safer for managing complications following removal of sharp foreign bodies.

Accidentally swallowed toothbrush in mentally healthy patient: A case report and review of literature

Most ingested foreign bodies are usually passed through the gastrointestinal tract. Ingested toothbrush however is almost never passed due to their long length, which doesn’t negotiate the C-loop of the duodenum. Early endoscopic removal is however recommended to reduce chances of morbidity and mortality. Surgical option is considered when there is failure of endoscopic retrieval or when complication such as duodenal perforation has set in. In this case we present a 40-years-old man who accidentally ingested toothbrush that was removed surgically through mini laparotomy and gastrostomy.