Eight-year-old Cuong, who accidentally swallowed a 2.5 cm magnet while playing, underwent a successful gastric endoscopy procedure to remove the foreign object. The operation was performed by doctor Dinh Xuan Hoang, a specialist in the Pediatrics Department at Tam Anh Hanoi General Hospital.

X-ray images confirmed the magnet in the child's stomach. *Photo: Hospital provided*

Tam Anh Hospital frequently treats cases of children ingesting foreign objects, including plastic toys, batteries, and sharp items like nails and screws. Children aged one to six are particularly susceptible due to their active nature, curiosity, and tendency to explore their surroundings by putting objects in their mouths. While small, smooth, and non-hazardous objects may pass through the digestive system naturally, even small magnets pose a significant risk. Their strong magnetic force can cause severe damage to the digestive tract, leading to complications such as intestinal obstruction, volvulus, and intestinal ischemia.

Doctor Hoang examines Cuong before his discharge. *Photo: Hai Au*

Cuong was admitted to the hospital in a conscious state with normal heart and lung function. An X-ray confirmed the presence of a 2.5 cm radiopaque foreign body in his stomach. Doctor Hoang performed an endoscopy and successfully retrieved a dark brown magnet from the D3 duodenum. The boy recovered well and was discharged one day after the intervention.

Doctor Hoang advises parents to prevent such incidents by not allowing children to play with small, sharp, or easily ingestible items like batteries, coins, marbles, nails, and screws. Close supervision is essential when children play with toys containing small parts. Parents should also educate children about potential dangers. If there is any suspicion that a child has swallowed a foreign object, immediate medical attention at a hospital is crucial. Early detection and appropriate treatment significantly reduce the risk of complications for the child.

Trinh Mai