Basic mechanism of button battery ingestion injuries and novel mitigation strategies after diagnosis and removal

Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention of Button Battery Ingestion in Childhood: A European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition Position Paper

ABSTRACT

Button batteries (BB) remain a health hazard to children as ingestion might lead to life-threatening complications, especially if the battery is impacted in the esophagus. Worldwide initiatives have been set up in order to prevent and also timely diagnose and manage BB ingestions. A European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) task force for BB ingestions has been founded, which aimed to contribute to reducing the health risks related to this event. It is important to focus on the European setting, next to other worldwide initiatives, to develop and implement effective management strategies. As one of the first initiatives of the ESPGHAN task force, this ESPGHAN position paper has been written. The literature is summarized, and prevention strategies are discussed focusing on some controversial topics. An algorithm for the diagnosis and management of BB ingestions is presented and compared to previous guidelines (NASPGHAN, National Poison Center). In agreement with earlier guidelines, immediate localization of the BB is important and in case of esophageal impaction, the BB should be removed instantly (preferably <2 hours). Honey and sucralfate can be considered in ingestions ≤12 hours while waiting for endoscopic removal but should not delay it. In case of delayed diagnosis (first confirmation of the BB on X-ray >12 hours after ingestion or time point of removal >12 hours after ingestion) and esophageal impaction the guideline suggests to perform a CT scan in order to evaluate for vascular injury before removing the battery. In delayed diagnosis, even if the battery has passed the esophagus, endoscopy to screen for esophageal damage and a CT scan to rule out vascular injury should be considered even in asymptomatic children. In asymptomatic patients with early diagnosis (≤12 hours after ingestion) and position of the BB beyond the esophagus, one can monitor with repeat X-ray (if not already evacuated in stool) in 7 to 14 days, which is different from previous guidelines where repeat X-ray and removal is recommended after 2-4 days and is also based on age. Finally, prevention strategies are discussed in this paper.

Bilateral vocal fold palsy due to ingested battery in the postcricoid area/proximal esophagus

Stridor is a common symptom associated with foreign body aspiration. In most cases, this is due to the foreign bodies lodging in the supraglottis, glottis, subglottis, or high extra-thoracic trachea. Infrequently, foreign bodies located in the esophagus cause stridor. The ingestion of button batteries (BBs) has been reported to cause multiple problems. The incidence has been estimated at 10.5 per million people per year with a case fatality rate of 0.5%. BBs predominantly cause esophageal mucosal injury. Mechanisms of injury include pressure necrosis, electrolysis, caustic exposure, or heavy metal toxicity. The reported complications include severe esophageal ulceration, trachea-esophageal fistula or aorto-esophageal fistula, and pneumonia. Vocal fold pathology after battery ingestion, other than edema of cords, has been rarely reported. We describe a case of acute bilateral vocal fold dysfunction and review the literature.

Current management of aerodigestive foreign bodies in children

Foreign bodies ingestion or aspiration events in children can be a source of morbidity and mortality. In most cases, removal by a coordinated endoscopy can be performed when there is the availability of equipment and support staff for pediatric care. Close communication with the anesthesia, surgeon and operating room support staff is essential and rehearsing with a facsimile of the foreign body is useful. In certain cases, such as sharp foreign bodies or button batteries the endoscopy should be performed immediately.

Current management of button battery injuries

Button batteries (BB) are found in common household items and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population when ingested. BBs are made of various chemistries and have a unique size and shape that yield significant injury when lodged in the pediatric esophagus. BBs create a local tissue pH environment of 10 to 13 and can induce liquefactive necrosis at the negative pole. This initial injury can progress with further tissue breakdown even after removal. Unfortunately, patients may present with vague symptoms similar to viral illnesses and there is not always a known history of ingestion. Plain film X-ray can be diagnostic. Exposure can lead to caustic injury within 2 hours. Thus, timely endoscopic removal is the mainstay of treatment. Novel mitigation and neutralization strategies have been implemented into treatment guidelines. These include the preremoval ingestion of honey or sucralfate and intraoperative irrigation with acetic acid. Depending on the severity of injury following removal, careful consideration should be given for potential delayed complications including fistulization into major vessels which often leads to death. The National Button Battery Taskforce and several industry members have implemented prevention strategies such as educational safety outreach campaigns, child-resistant packaging changes, and warning labels. Governmental regulation and industry changes are key to limit not only the amount of BB ingestions, but also the devastating consequences that can result. Anonymous reporting of BB injuries through the Global Injury Research Collaborative has been made convenient and centralized through the advent of a user-friendly smartphone iOS/App Store and Android/GooglePlay application called the "GIRC App"; all specialists who manage foreign body cases should contribute their cases to help prevent future injuries. BB ingestion must be recognized and treated promptly using a multidisciplinary approach to optimize outcomes for these patients. Ultimately, a safer BB technology is critically needed to reduce or eliminate the severe and life-threatening injuries in children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Vocal cord paralysis following lithium button battery ingestion in children

This study reports on vocal cord paralysis caused by esophageal button battery (BB) ingestion in children. Medical records of children with vocal cord paralysis and esophageal BB ingestion treated at a tertiary referral institute between January 2016 and March 2020 were reviewed. Five patients aged 9-58 months were identified; three were male. Each patient had accidentally swallowed a 20-mm-diameter lithium battery (3 CR2032 type and 2 CR2025 type). One battery was removed within 4 h after ingestion, and three batteries were removed within 12 h. Removal of the battery was achieved with rigid esophagoscopy in four patients and direct laryngoscopy in one patient. Four patients had bilateral, and one had unilateral vocal cord paralysis. Three patients underwent tracheotomy; two were tracheotomy-dependent until follow-up, while the third patient died of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome a month after surgery. The two cases without tracheotomy remain under close follow-up.Conclusion: Accidentally ingested button batteries should be removed promptly to avoid severe complications. Respiratory support and neurotrophic treatment in the early stage of vocal cord paralysis may be beneficial for recovery of vocal cord movement. What is Known: • Button battery ingestion in children is extremely harmful, especially when the diameter of the button battery exceeds 20 mm. • Esophageal button battery impaction can cause serious complications such as esophageal perforation, mediastinal infection, tracheoesophageal fistula, vocal cord paralysis, and life-threatening bleeding. What is New: • Vocal cord paralysis in children with button battery ingestion plays an early warning role for identifying the severity of the disease. • Early neurotrophic drugs and glucocorticoid therapy may be helpful for the recovery of vocal cord movement, thereby avoiding tracheotomy.

Button batteries and typical swallowed foreign bodies can be differentiated in high-resolution X-Rays

BACKGROUND

Button battery ingestions have emerged as an increasing medical issue in recent years, especially for children. The frequent use of these energy sources in small appliances and toys is responsible for their ubiquitous occurrence in households. In addition to other possible foreign bodies, button batteries are particularly dangerous as they can cause severe complications in the aerodigestive tract.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed for a detailed analysis of specific radiographic identifiers of button batteries and similarly configured potential esophageal foreign bodies in high-resolution X-ray scans.

METHODS

A selection of potentially hazardous button batteries - in cases of ingestion (CR2032) or aspiration (LR44, LR1130) - was made. Other clinically relevant radio-opaque objects of similar size and shape have been selected accordingly. High-resolution X-ray scans (33.3 lp/mm) were made using an in vitro model in porcine esophageal preparations. A systematic, comparative analysis was carried out with the digital radiographic images.

FINDINGS

In the study described, the selected foreign bodies were scanned at distinct angles in high image quality. Using button batteries, radiographically details of their internal structures were shown that have not yet been described. The known markers, as well as new detailed characteristics, were found in the experimental setting. The differentiation from other typical esophageal foreign bodies was possible by analyzing four relevant identification features: the edge properties, internal structures, the size, and differences in 0°/90° scans.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results reveal that specific features of potential esophageal foreign bodies can be identified by improved radiographic resolution, contrast, and dynamics. Thus, the diagnostic reliability in distinguishing 'high-risk foreign bodies' from less dangerous ones could be increased. In the future, button batteries could be detected more reliably with intelligent digital image analysis and enhanced radiographic technology. This may further support clinical triage algorithms and help reduce medical complications in cases of foreign body ingestions.

Severe tracheobronchial harm due to lithium button battery aspiration: An in vitro study of the pathomechanism and injury pattern

BACKGROUND

Button battery incidents have become a rising medical issue in recent years, especially for infants. The increasing number of these cases can be explained by the expanding use of objects of everyday life and toys. As a result, button batteries in many households are ubiquitous in different states of charge. The extremely long shelf-life and the increasing energy densities of lithium button batteries boost the potential medical complications of accidental swallowing.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to analyze the pathophysiology of damage to tracheobronchial structures by button batteries aspiration over time.

METHODS

CR2032 and CR927 lithium button batteries (3.2/3.0 V) were exposed to porcine trachea preparations intraluminal at 37 °C in intervals up to 36 h. Measurements were made of the voltage curve, the discharge current, and the resulting pH values around the electrodes. The effects on tissue were examined using macroscopic time-lapse images and microscopic pictures of sections of the fixed specimens over time.

FINDINGS

The examinations showed a tissue electrolysis reaction directly after the beginning of battery exposure, which led to an immediate coagulation impairment of the respiratory epithelium. Over time, a strongly alkaline environment was established around the batteries. The resulting tissue colliquation caused profound tissue damage beyond the basal membrane of the mucosa, affecting the tracheobronchial cartilage after only 4 h of exposure time. After 12 h, there was significant necrosis of the annular ligaments of the trachea and the peribronchial pulmonary tissue. After completion of the experimental exposure time of 36 h, there was still a sufficient residual voltage on all button batteries of the experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

Besides accidental ingestion, the aspiration of button batteries is a life-threatening situation. The partial or complete acute airway obstruction in the trachea or the bronchi initially is the leading symptom, as with any foreign body aspiration. However, the results of the investigations show that even after a short exposure time, relevant tissue damage can be caused by the electrolysis reaction of the battery. After 12 h, a profound destruction of cartilage, connective tissue, and smooth muscles was observed in vitro, which may cause significant consequential damage in vivo. These findings reveal the need for rapid diagnosis and immediate foreign body removal after any battery ingestion. Moreover, the results show how relevant prevention of these accidents is, and that future safety modifications of these types of battery by the manufacturers would be appropriate.

Foreign body and caustic ingestions in children: A clinical practice guideline

Foreign body and caustic ingestions in children are usually the most common clinical challenges for emergency physicians, general pediatricians and pediatric gastroenterologists. Management of these conditions often requires different levels of expertise and competence. Endoscopy is often necessary but there is a high risk of misusing this tool with incorrect timing and indications. The imprecise clinical history frequently leaves clinicians uncertain about timing and nature of the ingestion. Few clinical guidelines regarding management of these ingestions in children have been published, none of which from the Italian Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP). An expert panel of Italian endoscopists was convened by the SIGENP Endoscopy Working Group to produce the present article that outlines practical clinical approaches to the pediatric patient with a variety of foreign body and caustic ingestions. The Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists and Endoscopists (AIGO) has also endorsed the project since many adult endoscopists usually manage children with these conditions. Differently from the other published guidelines, the proposed one focuses on the role of the endoscopists (regardless of whether they are adult or pediatric gastroenterologists) in the diagnostic process of children with foreign body and caustic ingestions.

Injury Mechanism of Button Batteries in the Nasal Cavity and Possible Mitigation Strategies During Impaction

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

Button batteries (BBs) impacted in the nasal cavity can cause several complications. Understanding the injury mechanism and developing possible mitigation strategies can reduce these complications.

STUDY DESIGN

Cadaveric sheep nasal septum model.

METHODS

Lithium, alkaline, silver oxide, and zinc-air BBs were placed on segments of the nasal septum of cadaveric sheep. The BB voltage, tissue temperatures, and pH were measured every 30 minutes for 6 hours. Subsequently, 5 drops of lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, tea, Coke (Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, GA), tap water, and normal saline were applied separately to the other segments with the lithium BBs every 10 minutes for 3 hours. The visible injuries and the necrosis depths were assessed through the tissue temperatures, pH, and the voltage changes.

RESULTS

Both nonlithium and lithium BBs increased tissue pH without significant temperature changes. The 3V lithium BBs led to the greatest depth of necrosis, with a voltage loss of approximately 50% within the first 2 hours. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar were the most effective liquids for reducing visible injury, pH, and necrosis without increasing the temperature during pre-removal time period.

CONCLUSION

Nonlithium and lithium BBs caused alkaline tissue injury in a nasal septal model. Given the hazard severity, expedited BB removal is critical. For situations when removal cannot be immediately performed, further in vivo study is needed prior to considering human use of any pre-removal mitigation strategies in the nasal cavity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 130:2487-2493, 2020.

Successful Strategy for the Conservative Management of Acquired Tracheoesophageal Fistula Due to Lithium Button Battery Ingestion

A 16-month-old boy was referred to our hospital for the management of suspected lithium button battery (LBB) ingestion. He had been previously well, but became febrile with a persistent cough resistant to oral antibiotics and dysphagia for 5 days. Radiography identified an LBB lodged in the upper esophagus. The LBB was retrieved under direct visualization with rigid laryngoscopy. He was sedated for 5 days and enteral feeding was commenced through a nasojejunal tube on the next day after procedure. On day 8 after retrieval, endoscopy and fluoroscopy identified a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), 6 mm in diameter. Conservative management was conducted with periodic follow-up endoscopies, which showed signs of healing in the esophagus. Following continuous antibiotics and proactive nutritional support, the TEF was found to have closed spontaneously by day 28 after the LBB removal. We present our experience of the successful nonsurgical management of acquired TEF secondary to LBB ingestion and aim to establish a protocol for managing it conservatively by reviewing the relevant literature.

A potential post-removal pH neutralization strategy to mitigate nasal button battery injuries

OBJECTIVE

Button batteries (BBs) impacted in the nose of children can cause septal perforation, synechia, atrophy, necrosis and deformities such as saddle nose. Developing mitigation strategies that can reduce tissue damage after BB removal can decrease these complications.

METHODS

3 V lithium BBs were placed on the cadaveric sheep nasal septum model segments. After 3, 6, 12 and 24 h, BB on each segment was removed and intermittent irrigation was performed with 0.25% acetic acid solution. Irrigation with saline was performed as the control. Visual tissue damage that occurred just before and after irrigation was photographed. BB voltage, temperature and pH changes in the tissue were recorded. Each segment was examined after irrigation for the depth of necrosis and presence of cartilage necrosis.

RESULTS

The voltage of 3 V lithium BB was observed to drop to about half at the end of the 3rd hour. It was observed that full-thickness mucoperichondrial necrosis occurred in the nasal septum segments at all time points. Although 0.25% acetic acid irrigation significantly decreased tissue pH compared to saline without increasing temperature, it did not show a significant superiority compared to saline in reducing neither visually nor histologically damage. While cartilage necrosis was not observed for the first 12 h, it was measured 105 μm in the segment irrigated with 0.25% acetic acid at the end of 24 h, and 518 μm in the segment irrigated with saline.

CONCLUSIONS

The pH neutralization strategy with post-removal 0.25% acetic acid irrigation to mitigate nasal BB injury appears to be ineffective in reducing the full-thickness mucoperichondrial necrosis starting within 3 h. Although this strategy seems to decrease the progression of cartilage necrosis starting after 12 h, the development of pre-removal strategies for the first 3 h may be more effective and superior in reducing mucoperichondrial damage.

Mitigating Risks of Swallowed Button Batteries: New Strategies Before and After Removal

Despite ongoing efforts of the national Button Battery Task Force (BBTF), cases of major morbidity and mortality continue to be reported at a higher rate after ingestion of higher voltage and larger button batteries. Initiation of sucralfate or honey shortly after some button battery ingestions is crucial to prevent further injury while awaiting emergent removal. Endoscopic acetic acid irrigation post removal of button battery may halt deeper injury. Gastroenterologists need to be aware of the updates to the National Capital Poison Center algorithm for button battery ingestion.

Pediatric button battery ingestion: Publication trends in the literature

OBJECTIVE

Examine literature for evidence of changes in button battery (BB) research over time including: amount and rate of literature output, levels of evidence, and the location of the research.

METHODS

Literature review of all peer-reviewed button battery literature available online through Pubmed and Embase was performed. Inclusion criteria were applied to ensure relevance. Publications were grouped into 4 time periods. Various study characteristics were compared between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 255 original research studies were reviewed. A significant increase in study number was found with a 664% increase comparing 2009-2018 and 1977-1988 (p < 0.001) and a 187% increase comparing 2009-2018 and all previous years. Average author number significantly increased over the study period (range: 2.8 to 4.4; p < 0.001). Case report or case series were consistently the most common type of study design (range: 56.5% to 84.0%). Level of evidence has remained at 4-5 for the majority of studies (range: 87% to 92.1%). First author specialty remained stable over time, with non-otolaryngologist surgeons being the most common authors, followed by pediatricians and otolaryngologists (28.8%, 18.9%, 18.5%, respectively). Location of research has diversified, with US publications falling from 50% to 29.5% of all studies when comparing 1977-1988 to 2009-2018 time periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Button battery ingestion in the pediatric population has been an important topic of discussion among various medical specialties due to a rise in morbidity and mortality surrounding these ingestions. Despite the increase in number of studies and authors, the strength of these studies has remained largely unchanged.

Fatal haemorrhage from an aortoesophageal fistula secondary to button battery ingestion in a 15-month-old child. Case report and literature review

Small children put various objects into their mouths, which is one of their ways of exploring the surrounding world. Apart from toy parts, e.g. Lego® bricks or magnetic spheres, such objects include coins, small stones, as well as batteries used for different electric devices. Such batteries, especially the flat, round button type, may be ingested and become impacted in one of the physiological narrowing sites of the oesophagus, leading to serious complications. The case of a 15-month-old child is presented, who died due to a massive gastrointestinal haemorrhage from an aortoesophageal fistula that developed at the site of a pressure ulcer caused by an impacted button battery. The presented case shows that ingestion of even a small battery may lead to death. The asymptomatic course of the battery ingestion significantly hinders both the assessment of circumstances and the time of the battery ingestion. Sudden death may result from a massive haemorrhage from a pressure-induced injury to a big blood vessel.

Management and Outcomes of Button Batteries in the Aerodigestive Tract: A Multi-institutional Study

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To describe the clinical presentation, management, and complications associated with button battery impaction in the aerodigestive tract in children.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

This multi-institutional study, endorsed by the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology research consortium, is a retrospective medical record review, including all children at five tertiary-care institutions presenting with button batteries impacted in the aerodigestive tract between January 2002 and December 2014. Battery type/size, duration and location of impaction, presenting symptoms, treatment, complications, and outcomes were examined.

RESULTS

Eighty-one patients were included (64.2% male), with ingestion witnessed in 20 (24.7%). Median age at presentation was 3 years (range, 1 week-14 years). Median time from diagnosis to removal was 2.5 hours (range, 0.4-72 hours). Locations included the esophagus (n = 48), hypopharynx (n = 1), stomach (n = 6), nasal cavity (n = 22), and ear canal (n = 4). Most common symptoms for esophageal/hypopharyngeal impactions included dysphagia (26.5%), nausea/vomiting (26.5%), drooling (24.5%), cough (18.4%), and fever (18.4%). Most common symptoms for nasal impactions included epistaxis (54.6%), rhinorrhea (40.9%), nasal pain (27.3%), and fever (22.7%). Almost all esophageal impactions were from 3-V (89.5%), 20-mm (81.8%) lithium batteries. Severe esophageal complications included stricture (28.6%), perforation (24.5%), tracheoesophageal fistula formation (8.2%), pneumothorax (4.1%), and bilateral true vocal fold paresis (4.1%). Nasal complications included necrosis (59.1%), septal perforation (27.3%), and saddle nose deformity (4.5%). Duration of impaction correlated with an increased likelihood of persistent symptoms only for nasal batteries (P = .049).

CONCLUSIONS

Button batteries in the upper pediatric aerodigestive tract or ear canal should be considered a surgical emergency, requiring urgent removal and careful vigilance for complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E298-E306, 2021.

Edible Oils Attenuate Button Battery-Induced Injury in Porcine Esophageal Segments

Objective: The objective of the study is to test whether the use of edible oil might be an early treatment strategy for reducing button battery-induced esophageal injury. Methods: A button battery was inserted into esophageal segments collected from pigs. The esophageal segments were randomly allotted to one of the following six treatments: (1) untreated (nothing injected), (2) lemon juice, (3) orange juice, (4) colza oil, (5) peanut oil, and (6) olive oil. Every hour, the battery discharge and the pH value were measured in the esophageal tissue. After treatment for 6 h, the residual voltage of the battery was measured and the esophageal tissue was processed with H&E staining. Results: In esophageal segments of the untreated group, a large area of the mucous membrane was severely eroded. Partial erosion was observed in esophageal tissues treated with either lemon juice or orange juice. Furthermore, the esophageal tissues were basically intact, had little damage when treated with oils. The highest extra-esophageal discharge voltage was recorded in the untreated group, a medium amount of discharge voltage was recorded in the lemon juice and orange juice groups, and the lowest discharge voltage was recorded in all the edible oils groups. Conclusions: Edible oils immersed the battery, reduced the surrounding electrolysis, and thus attenuated battery discharge. As a result, treatment with edible oils attenuated the pH alkalization and tissue damage in button battery injury of pig esophageal segments. These results indicate that edible oils might be used in the treatment of button battery ingestion.

Clinical Profile and Outcome of Esophageal Button Battery Ingestion in Children: An 8-Year Retrospective Case Series

Objective

To present the clinical profile and outcomes of esophageal button battery ingestion cases treated at our institution over an 8-year period.

Methods

A total of 17 children who presented after ingesting a button battery and were treated at a tertiary care clinic over an 8-year period were included in this retrospective case series study. Data on patient demographics and esophageal location of the battery, time from ingestion to admission, symptoms, grade of mucosal injury, size of the battery, management, complications, and follow-up outcome were recorded.

Results

Median age was 29 months (range, 2–99 months). Boys comprised (n=11, 64.7%) of the study population. The most common location was the proximal esophagus (n=10, 58.8%). The median time from ingestion to admission was 6 h (range, 3–24 h). Hypersalivation alone (n=6, 35.3%) or together with vomiting (n=5, 29.4%) was the most common symptom. Grade IIA mucosal injury was noted in six (n=6, 35.3%) patients. The diameter of the battery was a median of 18.0 mm (range, 14–22 mm). We did not observe any correlation between the size of the battery and the grade of the injury. Early postoperative complications were encountered in one patient (n=1, 5.8%) and late postoperative complications were noted in eight patients (n=8, 47.1%) which required further esophageal dilatations, and follow-up revealed normal findings in eight patients (n=8, 47.1%) and mortality occurred in one patient.

Conclusion

The current case series study describing the clinical profiles and outcomes of 17 children who had ingested an esophageal button battery revealed male predominance, young patient age, and admission after a median of 6 h (3–24 h) of ingestion with nonspecific symptoms. Our findings confirm the success of rigid endoscopy to remove esophageal button batteries and indicate the likelihood of severe complications after removal.

The novel use of a nasal bridle system to remove a foreign body in the ear

Foreign bodies in the ear are a common presentation that prompt referral to Otolaryngology. We describe a technique that is safe and simple to perform for the removal of metallic foreign bodies in the ear. Case report of an elderly gentleman presenting with otalgia and a hearing aid battery lodged within bony external ear canal.

Foreign object ingestion and esophageal food impaction: An update and review on endoscopic management

Foreign body ingestion encompasses both foreign object ingestion (FOI) and esophageal food impaction (EFI) and represents a common and clinically significant scenario among patients of all ages. The immediate risk to the patient ranges from negligible to life-threatening, depending on the ingested substance, its location, patient fitness, and time to appropriate therapy. This article reviews the FOI and EFI literature and highlights important considerations and implications for pediatric and adult patients as well as their providers. Where published literature is insufficient to provide evidence-based guidance, expert opinion is included to supplement the content of this comprehensive review.

pH-neutralizing esophageal irrigations as a novel mitigation strategy for button battery injury

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Ingestion of button batteries (BB) can rapidly lead to caustic esophageal injury in infants and children, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. To identify novel mitigation strategies, we tested common weakly acidic household beverages, viscous liquids, and Carafate® for their ability to act as protective esophageal irrigations until endoscopic removal of the BB.

STUDY DESIGN

Cadaveric and live animal model.

METHODS

Apple juice, orange juice, Gatorade®, POWERADE®, pure honey, pure maple syrup, and Carafate® were screened using a 3 V lithium (3 V-CR2032) BB on cadaveric porcine esophagus. The most promising in vitro options were tested against a saline control in live American Yorkshire piglets with anode-facing placement of the BB on the posterior wall of the proximal esophagus for 60 minutes. BB voltage and tissue pH were measured before battery placement and after removal. The 10 mL irrigations occurred every 10 minutes from t = 5 minutes. Gross and histologic assessment was performed on the esophagus of piglets euthanized 7 ± 0.5 days following BB exposure.

RESULTS

Honey and Carafate® demonstrated to a significant degree the most protective effects in vitro and in vivo. Both neutralized the tissue pH increase and created more localized and superficial injuries; observed in vivo was a decrease in both full-thickness injury (i.e., shallower depths of necrotic and granulation tissue) and outward extension of injury in the deep muscle beyond surface ulcer margins (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

In the crucial period between BB ingestion and endoscopic removal, early and frequent ingestion of honey in the household setting and Carafate® in the clinical setting has the potential to reduce injury severity and improve patient outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 129:49-57, 2019.

Button battery and magnet ingestions in the pediatric patient

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pediatric foreign body ingestion is a common occurrence that presents a challenge both to pediatric gastroenterologists and primary care providers. Increasing prevalence of smaller, more technologically advanced toys in the household has resulted in an increased exposure to higher voltage batteries and powerful magnets that carry a high incidence of morbidity and mortality. This review highlights the latest findings regarding the patients at risk for button battery and magnet ingestions, the symptoms of presentation, and complications of these objects in contributing to long-standing gastrointestinal injury.

RECENT FINDINGS

Button batteries may lead to esophageal injury within a few hours. Batteries retained in the esophagus are larger in diameter on average and size is associated with esophageal impaction as well as higher grade esophageal injury. Magnet ingestions, when multiple or with another metallic object, are often initially asymptomatic but may have acute worsening, and therefore warrant close monitoring.

SUMMARY

Button battery and magnet ingestions have increased in incidence over the past two decades. Recent literature demonstrates that higher voltage, larger lithium button batteries, and prevalence of high-powered magnets can lead to significant morbidity. High suspicion, early referral, and removal may lead to improved outcomes.

Foreign body ingestion in pediatric patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this article is to review clinical manifestations and management of common pediatric foreign body ingestions, with a particular focus on some of the current trends.

RECENT FINDINGS

Foreign body ingestion (FBI) is a problem that is frequently encountered by pediatric providers. As new toys and products enter the marketplace, there may also be new dangers from those objects not initially recognized. Some of the recent trends and findings in pediatric FBI include an increase in adolescent injury from ingestion of laundry detergent pods because of a popular game where participants are encouraged to bite or swallow the pods, and injuries associated with ingesting parts of a popular toy known as a 'Fidget Spinner'.

SUMMARY

Adverse events resulting from FBI range the entire gamut from nonexistent or minor symptoms to moderate injury and rarely may be fatal. Factors such as age, type of object ingested, anatomic location of the foreign body, and timing from ingestion to receipt of medical attention all determine the risk posed to the child and guide management decisions. Because of the constant development of products, and the potential for the emergence of new and dangerous trends among children, continued surveillance by the medical community is important in monitoring and managing injuries associated with FBI.

Electronic medical record-based tools aid in timely triage of disc-shaped foreign body ingestions

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Children presenting to the emergency department with coin-shaped foreign body (FB) ingestion must be evaluated urgently to rule out a button battery. As many of these ingestions are well-appearing on presentation, delays in triage put patients at risk for further injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Quality initiative.

METHODS

A quality initiative, utilizing electronic medical record (EMR)-based tools, was implemented at our academic children's hospital. A chief complaint pertaining to coin-shaped FB ingestion was created and was linked to a best practice advisory, instructing assignment of acuity level 2 and the order of a Stat x-ray. A link to the hospital's relevant algorithm was provided. A review was conducted comparing children who underwent FB removal preinitiative (January 1, 2016-January 28, 2017) and postinitiative (January 31, 2017-August 30, 2017). Primary outcomes were frequency of assignment of acuity level 2 and time from patient arrival to x-ray order placement and x-ray completion.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients in the baseline group and 30 in the postintervention group underwent FB removal. The rate of appropriate acuity assignment increased from 63.8% (23/36) pre implementation to 100% (30/30) postimplementation (P = .0003). Median time from arrival to imaging ordered and completed decreased from 36.5 to 4 minutes (95% confidence interval [CI]: -44 to -17) and 59 to 41 minutes (95% CI: -39 to -1), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Utilization of EMR-based tools was associated with improved timeliness in initiation of care in metallic FB ingestion patients. Further initiatives will be aimed at downstream events in the diagnosis and treatment of these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 128:2697-2701, 2018.

Time to perforation for button batteries lodged in the esophagus

INTRODUCTION

New strategies recently proposed to mitigate injury caused by lithium coin cell batteries lodged in the esophagus include prehospital administration of honey to coat the battery and prevent local hydroxide generation and in-hospital administration of sucralfate suspension (or honey). This study was undertaken to define the safe interval for administering coating agents by identifying the timing of onset of esophageal perforations.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 290 fatal or severe battery ingestions with esophageal lodgment was undertaken to identify cases with esophageal perforations.

RESULTS

Esophageal perforations were identified in 189 cases (53 fatal, 136 severe; 95.2% in children ≤4 years). Implicated batteries were predominantly lithium (91.0%) and 92.0% were ≥20 mm diameter. Only 2% of perforations occurred in <24 h following ingestion, including 3 severe cases with perforations evident at 11-17 h, 12 h, and 18 h. Another 7.4% of perforations (11 cases) became evident 24 to 47 h post ingestion and 10.1% of perforations (15 cases) became evident 48 to 71 h post ingestion. By 3 days post ingestion, 26.8% of perforations were evident, 36.9% by 4 days, 46.3% by 5 days, and 66.4% by 9 days.

CONCLUSION

Esophageal perforation is unlikely in the 12 h after battery ingestion, therefore the administration of honey or sucralfate carries a low risk of extravasation from the esophagus. This first 12 h includes the period of peak electrolysis activity and battery damage, thus the risk of honey or sucralfate is low while the benefit is likely high.

Serious complications after button battery ingestion in children

Serious and fatal complications after button battery ingestion are increasing worldwide. The aim of this study is to describe serious complications after battery ingestion in children in the Netherlands.All pediatric gastroenterologists in the Netherlands performing upper endoscopies were asked to report all serious complications after battery ingestion in children (0-18 years) between 2008 and 2016 retrospectively.Sixteen serious complications were reported: death after massive bleeding through esophageal-aortal fistula (n = 1), esophageal-tracheal fistula (n = 5), stenosis after (suspected) perforation and mediastinitis (n = 5), (suspected) perforation and mediastinitis (n = 3), vocal cord paralysis (n = 1), and required reintubation for dyspnea and stridor (n = 1). The median time interval between ingestion and presentation was 5 (IQR 2-258) h. All children were ≤ 5 (median 1.4; IQR 0.9-2.1) years. Vomiting (31.3%), swallowing/feeding problems (31.3%), and fever (31.3%) were the most common presenting symptoms; however, 18.8% of the patients were asymptomatic (n = 1 missing). All batteries were button batteries (75% ≥ 20 mm; 18.8% < 20 mm; n = 1 missing). The batteries were removed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy (50%) and rigid endoscopy (37.5%) or surgically (12.5%).

CONCLUSION

Sixteen serious complications occurred after small and large button batteries ingestion between 2008 and 2016 in both symptomatic and asymptomatic children in the Netherlands. Therefore, immediate intervention after (suspected) button battery ingestion is required. What is Known: • Button battery ingestion may result in serious and fatal complications. • Serious and fatal complications after button battery ingestion are increasing worldwide. What is New: • Sixteen serious complications after button battery ingestion occurred during 2008-2016 in children in the Netherlands. • Serious complications were also caused by small batteries (< 20 mm) in the Netherlands and also occurred in asymptomatic Dutch children.