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Button Battery Ingestion — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyEmergency PaediatricsButton Battery IngestionRACP Paediatrics

A 2-year-old child presents to the emergency department after accidental ingestion of a button battery 30 minutes ago. X-ray confirms the battery is lodged in the oesophagus. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: D — Urgent endoscopic removal

A button battery lodged in the oesophagus is a surgical emergency. Mucosal injury can occur within 2 hours due to electrical current generation and alkali leakage, leading to perforation, fistula formation, and even aorto-oesophageal fistula with fatal haemorrhage. Urgent endoscopic removal (within 2 hours) is mandatory. Honey or sucralfate may be given pre-procedure if delays are anticipated.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Button Battery Ingestion