Multiple magnet ingestion and gastrointestinal morbidity

Arch Dis Child. 2002 Dec;87(6):539-40. doi: 10.1136/adc.87.6.539.

Abstract

Foreign body ingestion is common but multiple magnet ingestion is rare. When more than one magnet is ingested, gastrointestinal complications may occur. The magnets are attracted to each other across the bowel wall and this may lead to pressure necrosis, perforation, fistula formation, or intestinal obstruction. We report a case of perforation following the ingestion of 12 small magnets. Clinicians who care for children should be aware of this hazard.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Foreign Bodies / complications*
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging
  • Foreign-Body Migration / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Perforation / etiology*
  • Intestinal Perforation / surgery
  • Intestines*
  • Magnetics / instrumentation*
  • Radiography, Abdominal