Large nail in the duodenum following accidental ingestion

Abstract

Foreign body ingestion is common in pediatrics. Management depends on the composition and the shape of the ingested objects. Small, non-caustic, non-toxic objects are considered low risk for complication after passing the lower esophageal sphincter and are allowed to pass spontaneously. This recommendation applies to straight pins less than 5 cm in length or with a weighted blunt end because evidence suggests that these items have a low probability of puncturing the gastrointestinal tract. Here, we present the case of 2 years boy who ingested a 10 cm, sharp-ended straight nail. In this case, the ingested nail was impacted in the duodenum. Keywords: Foreign body, Duodenal obstruction, Gastroenterology