Chang Gung medical journal
-
Button batteries represent a distinct type of foreign body. Serious complications can be resulted, particularly when the battery is impacted in the esophagus. The potentially detrimental effects of button battery ingestion have often been overlooked in Taiwan. We surveyed patients following button battery ingestion to define the characteristics and outcomes of this population. ⋯ Most ingested batteries passed through the gastrointestinal tract without any adverse effects. An initial roentgenogram should be obtained promptly to determine battery location and diameter, and the battery's chemical composition should be determined when possible. Esophageal impaction of the batteries requires emergency endoscopic or surgical removal. For patients without esophageal impaction, conservative intervention is recommended in the absence of symptoms and signs of injury.