Management of Foreign Bodies: Beads, Coins, and Magnets.

Foreign body ingestion is a frequent and potentially serious emergency in young children, particularly those under 5 years of age. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of ingested objects, including magnets, button batteries, sharp and blunt items, and water beads. It highlights the unique risks, complications, and decision-making algorithms associated with each type, integrating evidence-based recommendations from recent literature and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. Special attention is given to radiolucent materials, such as water beads, which present diagnostic challenges and may require advanced imaging or surgical intervention.