Intestinal Obstruction in an Infant Due to Magnet Ingestion

Abstract

A case of intestinal obstruction in an infant due to magnet ingestion is reported. The 17-month-old female swallowed seven small magnets, and developed an acute intestinal obstruction. At laparotomy, a fistula between the jejunum and the ileum which contained the seven magnets was found and resected. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful. Accidental magnet ingestion mandates careful observation for the development of intestinal obstruction.