[Accidental ingestion of small batteries is increasingly common. Serious tissue damage may occur if batteries become lodged in the esophagus].

Accidental ingestion of small batteries is increasingly common among both children and old people. Most batteries pass through the gastrointestinal tract without complications, but if they become lodged in the oesophagus acute removal by gastroscopy is indicated to avoid serious tissue damage. All patients with symptoms should be examined without delay, but routine initial x-ray is unnecessary in the asymptomatic patient. If the battery diameter or length exceeds 15 mm, and it fails to pass through the GI tract within 36 hours, an x-ray to locate it is indicated. If the battery is found to be retained in the stomach and conservative therapy (metoclopramide) fails, it should be removed with the aid of a gastroscope no later than day three. The local electrical current generated by the battery seems to be the most important mechanism causing mucosal injury.