Mischievous magnets: unexpected health hazard in children.
The authors encountered two cases of gastrointestinal complication caused by ingested magnetic beads. Because of the magnetic property, the steel beads, components of bracelets or necklaces worn for naturalistic healing power, have caused perforations, fistula formation, and obstruction. The authors believe the public should be warned of the health hazard of such devices.
Lee
S K
SK
Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.
Beck
N S
NS
Kim
H H
HH
D002675:Child, Preschool; D004064:Digestive System; D005260:Female; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D006547:Hernia / Q000209:etiology; D059685:Herniorrhaphy; D006801:Humans; D007410:Intestinal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D007412:Intestinal Fistula / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D007416:Intestinal Perforation / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D007813:Laparotomy; D008280:Magnetics / Q000009:adverse effects*