Value of intestinal ultrasound in pediatric magnet ingestion: a case report

Ingestion of magnetic foreign bodies in pediatric settings has become more common in the last years due to the marketing of various toys containing small magnetic parts. Most magnets, especially if a single element is ingested, usually pass through the gastrointestinal tract without complications. However, ingestion of multiple magnets or magnets and small metallic components may require a prompt intervention due to the risk of attraction across bowel layers, leading to pressure necrosis, perforation, and even death. Routinely, serial radiological evaluations are needed to follow the progression of magnets through the intestine, while the role of small bowel ultrasound is regarded as marginal. Here we report a case of a 5-years old boy who ingested 8 magnets and in which small bowel ultrasound was pivotal for the correct assessment of magnets location to correct address the surgical approach.