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Ingestion of small flat disc batteries
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|February 1, 1983
Summary
Ingested button batteries, often alkali or toxic metal types, pose management challenges. Most cases resolve without surgery, but surgical intervention may be needed if a battery is retained long-term.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Ingestion of small, flat disc batteries is a growing concern.
- Management strategies for pediatric battery ingestions remain controversial.
- Poison control centers receive numerous calls regarding battery ingestions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the management of button battery ingestions.
- To analyze case data from a regional poison control center.
- To suggest management guidelines for alkali or toxic metal battery ingestions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of battery ingestions reported to a regional poison control center.
- Analysis of ingestion data, including battery type and location.
- Surgical intervention assessment for retained batteries.
Main Results:
- 30 calls concerning battery ingestions were received in 16 months.
- Only one case required surgical intervention due to a five-day cecal retention.
- The surgically removed battery was intact.
Conclusions:
- Most button battery ingestions do not necessitate surgical removal.
- Guidelines for managing alkali or toxic metal battery ingestions are proposed.
- Prompt medical evaluation is crucial for ingested batteries.