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Handheld Metal Detector Screening for Metallic Foreign Body Ingestion in Children
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Ball magnet ingestion in children: a stronger and more dangerous attraction?

James Price1,2, Georgina Malakounides3, Sarah Stibbards4

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK james.price@doctors.org.uk.

Emergency Medicine Journal : EMJ
|September 21, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Ingesting rare-earth

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology and Surgery
  • Public Health and Safety

Background:

  • Ingestion of small, strong rare-earth magnets, known as 'ball magnets', poses a severe risk of life-threatening bowel injuries in children.
  • The study addresses the critical need for understanding the scope and management of this pediatric hazard.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and management strategies for pediatric 'ball magnet' ingestion across the United Kingdom.
  • To inform policy-makers and public awareness campaigns regarding the dangers of rare-earth magnet ingestion.

Main Methods:

  • A multi-center survey was conducted across UK major trauma centers (MTCs).
  • Paediatric patients admitted for 'ball magnet' ingestion between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020, were included.
  • Data collection involved responses from 11 MTCs.

Main Results:

  • 53 children were admitted for 'ball magnet' ingestion over the 1-year study period.
  • Most ingestions (n=51) were unintentional, with 68% presenting asymptomatically.
  • 51% of patients required operative intervention, primarily laparotomy; no deaths were reported.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric 'ball magnet' ingestion represents a significant public health concern in the UK, leading to serious gastrointestinal complications.
  • A collaborative approach involving clinicians, regulators, and caregivers is essential for prevention and effective management.
Abstract

Keywords:
accidentalpaediatric emergency medicinepaediatricspoisoning

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