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Updated: May 5, 2026

Handheld Metal Detector Screening for Metallic Foreign Body Ingestion in Children
Published on: September 11, 2018
Oesophageal foreign body: an unusual presentation
M Oyewole1, O Ajayi2, A Hilger2
1Department of Surgery, Hillingdon Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Uxbridge, UK.
A watch battery lodged in the esophagus caused respiratory issues in a child. Prompt diagnosis with chest X-rays is crucial for identifying esophageal foreign bodies and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Otolaryngology
- Radiology
Background:
- Esophageal foreign bodies are common in children.
- Ingestion of button batteries poses a significant risk due to potential caustic injury.
Observation:
- A 17-month-old child presented with recurrent upper respiratory tract symptoms.
- Initial presentations mimicked common childhood illnesses, delaying diagnosis.
Findings:
- Radiographic imaging revealed a watch battery lodged in the esophagus, compressing the trachea.
- Successful retrieval of the foreign body was achieved under general anesthesia.
Implications:
- Large esophageal foreign bodies can present with atypical respiratory symptoms.
- Anteroposterior and lateral chest radiography are essential for diagnosing esophageal impaction.
- Early recognition and intervention are critical to prevent airway compromise.
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