Decorative crystal balls causing intestinal perforation

Abstract

Crystal jelly balls are used for decorative purpose in homes and offices. They swell on contact with water. We managed a patient with a clinical diagnosis of acute abdomen. At surgery, there was fecal peritonitis and three ileal perforations caused by previously ingested decorative crystal balls.

Keywords

• Acute abdomen
• crystal balls
• generalized peritonitis
• intestinal perforation
• missing foreign body