Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Endoscopic Injection Sclerotherapy Assisted by Cyanoacrylate and Clips for Gastroesophageal Varices
Published on: June 13, 2025
Management of esophageal coins
1Harvard Medical School, Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA. mark.waltzman@childrens.harvard.edu
Purpose Of Review:
Coins are the most commonly ingested foreign body encountered in the pediatric population. Coins that are in the esophagus and are causing symptoms (cough, stridor, respiratory distress, drooling or pain) are managed with immediate removal via various methods. Asymptomatic coins have been a perplexing problem to the clinician for decades, with some advocating for immediate removal while others are proponents of "watchful waiting".
Recent Findings:
This article will provide a review of the current literature on management options for symptomatic and asymptomatic esophageal coins. The article will discuss clinical decision-making strategies for the diagnosis of the unwitnessed ingestion, as well as diagnostic studies, such as plain radiographs, as well as novel modalities, such as metal detectors. Discussion of the anatomic issues related to esophageal foreign bodies will be addressed. Treatment options for asymptomatic patients will be reviewed utilizing data from retrospective studies as well as a prospective randomized trial.
Summary:
In the symptomatic patient with an esophageal coin, immediate removal via endoscopy is recommended. For the asymptomatic patient with an esophageal coin, current data support expectant management for a period of 12-24 h with the hope of spontaneous passage and avoidance of general anesthesia and surgical procedure.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
