On 14/4, Quang Tri Provincial General Hospital announced that an X-ray confirmed a foreign object was lodged in the girl's stomach. Doctors warned that if not addressed promptly, the object could lead to perforation of the digestive tract, hemorrhage, and other dangerous complications.

The screw in the girl's stomach. Photo: Hospital provided

An interdisciplinary team of doctors from the Emergency Resuscitation Department, Endoscopy and Functional Exploration Unit, and Anesthesia and Resuscitation Department held a consultation. They then performed an emergency endoscopy under anesthesia. Within 30 minutes, the screw was safely removed.

Following the procedure, the pediatric patient was monitored in the Emergency Resuscitation Department. Her condition remained stable, and she was discharged the next day.

The screw removed from the patient's stomach. Photo: Hospital provided

Relatives reported that the girl accidentally swallowed a sharp, spiral screw while playing. Upon discovering the incident, her mother, in a state of panic, patted her back in an attempt to dislodge the object. However, this action unintentionally pushed the screw deeper. The family immediately rushed the child to the hospital's emergency room.

Doctors advise parents not to allow young children to play with small, sharp objects such as nails, screws, batteries, or coins. Adults must always supervise children during playtime. If a child is suspected of swallowing a foreign object, prompt transportation to the nearest medical facility for timely treatment is crucial.

Accidents involving foreign object ingestion in young children can occur in an instant and pose serious risks if mishandled. Remaining calm, administering correct first aid, and seeking immediate medical attention are key factors in ensuring a child's safety.

Dac Thanh