Demographic Findings and Treatment Results of Foreign Body Ingestion in Children

Abstract

Background: Swallowing foreign bodies represents a significant global medical emergency, occurring both intentionally and accidentally. Objectives: This study investigates the prevalence and treatment outcomes of foreign body ingestion (FBI) in children treated at Ali Ibn Abi Talib Zahedan Hospital's emergency department in 2020. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 61 children identified from all those presenting to Ali Ibn Abi Talib Zahedan Hospital's emergency room in 2020 with confirmed FBI based on history or radiological findings. Data were collected using an information sheet, and analysis was conducted using SPSS 26 software. Results: The study found the highest frequency of cases among children aged up to 4 years (57.4%), predominantly boys (60.7%). Mothers most commonly witnessed the incidents (24.6%). Batteries (29.5%) and coins (13.1%) were the most frequently swallowed foreign bodies. Most mothers had a diploma or sub-diploma education (78.7%), and the majority were housewives (85.2%). Medical treatment was most common (72.1%), with 23% discharged spontaneously. Complications included perforation (8.2%). Most fathers were self-employed (65.6%). Conclusions: This study underscores the prevalence and treatment outcomes of FBI in children, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.