Pediatric multiple magnetic foreign body ingestion: 3 cases report and literature survey

Abstract

Objective To enhance awareness of the dangerous of multiple magnets ingestion in children and to explore the optimal treatment of it. Methods The clinical data of 3 cases with multiple magnet ingestion were retrospectively studied based on literature review. Results Ingestion of multiple magnets(range: 2-5 magnets) magnets occurred in 3 cases.Age ranged from 1 to 8 years old.Magnet sources included: 2 from children′s family, 1 from their kindergarten.All patients had several bowel perforations(range: 2-4). One case was completed by laparoscopic, 1 case was converted to open suegery after laparoscopy, 1 case was done by open surgery.All cases got complete recovery after surgical treatment, and no complications occurred by follow-up. Conclusions Ingestion of multiple magnets may show minimal initial physical manifestations at beginning but may result in significant complications later.Two or more magnets separated from each other along the gastrointestinal tract can attract each other across bowel walls, with may result in pressure necrosis, bowel perforation, and fistulas formation and even death.Early surgical consultation with an aggressive surgical approach is recommended.Family and society should be aware of the dangers of magnet ingestion. Key words: Magnet; Foreign body; Child