The Necessity of Simple X-ray Examination

Abstract

Since the discovery of button battery, it has been widely applied in various electric devices. However, the button battery has a potential risk as a foreign body in the nasopharyngeal field. Thus, there is a need for early diagnosis and removal of these batteries. We experienced a case of foreign body in the nasal cavity. A battery was lost around a 2-year-old patient. He visited a local pediatric clinic. X-ray examination of the neck, chest. and abdomen showed no sign of a foreign body. He subsequently exhibited left cheek swelling and came to our clinic. X-ray examination of head revealed a metallic foreign body in the left nasal cavity. The foreign body was approached using an endoscope under general anesthesia. The nasal cavity was filled with necrotic tissue. We removed the foreign body using forceps. After surgery, perforation of nasal cavity was identified. The button battery was a potential risk because it contained toxic substances, could release an electrical current, and exerted direct pressure on the surrounding tissues. Surgical removal of button battery is the treatment of first choice. As for late complications, saddle nose is reported. Our patient would receive nasoplastic surgery around the age of 18 years. In summary, our patient's nose was not initially examined using x-ray study. It is very important to keep in mind the possibility of a nasal foreign body, not only for ear, nose, and throat doctors but also for pediatricians.