Management of Ingested Foreign Bodies in Gastrointestinal Systems
Summary
The ingestion of foreign bodies represents a common clinical challenge, affecting paediatric, adult and geriatric populations worldwide. Most ingested objects traverse the gastrointestinal tract without incident, but hazardous items—such as sharp objects, batteries and magnets—carry a significant risk of impaction, perforation and fistula formation. Initial assessment centres on clinical history and physical examination, with symptoms ranging from odynophagia and dysphagia to chest pain or asymptomatic presentation. Plain radiography remains the first-line imaging modality, supplemented by computed tomography when radiolucent items or complications are suspected. Management stratifies into conservative observation for low-risk objects, endoscopic retrieval for high-risk or persistent impactions and surgical intervention for perforation or failed endoscopic extraction. Endoscopic techniques have evolved to include overtubes, retrieval nets and various grasping devices, improving safety and efficacy. Emerging guidelines emphasise rapid intervention in battery ingestion to prevent mucosal necrosis and vascular injury. Cross-disciplinary collaboration among gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons underpins optimal outcomes. Recent advances in artificial intelligence promise to enhance early detection on imaging, while novel endoscopic accessories expand the therapeutic repertoire. The global burden of foreign body ingestion demands standardised protocols, public education and ongoing research into minimally invasive technologies, with the ultimate aim of reducing morbidity and health-care costs.
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Management of Ingested Foreign Bodies in Gastrointestinal Systems publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in management of ingested foreign bodies in gastrointestinal systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Endoscopy: Minimally invasive procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to visualise and retrieve objects from the gastrointestinal tract.
Deep learning algorithm: A form of artificial intelligence employing layered neural networks trained on data to identify patterns and assist diagnostic imaging.
Button battery: A small, disc-shaped cell commonly found in electronics that can cause severe mucosal injury and perforation if ingested.
Dysphagia: Difficulty in swallowing caused by mechanical obstruction or neuromuscular dysfunction in the oesophagus.
Odynophagia: Pain on swallowing often indicative of mucosal injury or foreign body impaction.
References
- Improving detection of impacted animal bones on lateral neck radiograph using a deep learning artificial intelligence algorithm. Insights into Imaging (2023).
- Serious complications after button battery ingestion in children. European Journal of Pediatrics (2018).
- Endoscopic Management of Foreign Bodies in the Gastrointestinal Tract: A Review of the Literature. Gastroenterology Research and Practice (2016).
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