The use of imaging tests in paediatric button battery ingestion complications

Abstract

The ingestion of foreign bodies is a common issue among children, especially those under the age of three. Most pass through the gastrointestinal tract without any complications. However, button batteries are associated with a higher risk of complications, particularly in infants or when batteries are larger, due to the risk of oesophageal impaction, which can cause severe injuries. The initial clinical presentation is ambiguous, delaying and complicating diagnosis. There are times when complications are only suspected after symptoms become severe. Radiography, oesophagography, computerised tomography, and magnetic resonance are used in the diagnostic process. Oesophageal perforation or stenosis, mediastinitis, and tracheal or vascular fistulas are among the most serious complications. Episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding are associated with high death rates. This article examines the usefulness of imaging tests in the initial diagnosis, complication detection and follow-up.