Ingestion of neodymium magnet spheres: Three case studies

Abstract

We report three pediatric cases of two, five, and 12 neodymium magnet spheres ingested simultaneously. In two cases, endoscopic extraction failed because of the strength of the magnetic attraction and a gastrotomy was performed to remove all magnets. In the third case, the magnets were not accessible endoscopically and were removed by laparotomy. We wish to warn consumer groups and pediatricians about the danger of neodymium magnets.

Keywords: Endoscopy; Foreign body; Gastrotomy; Magnet; Neodymium.