Poster - 12
Surgical Management of Severe Complications from Button Battery Ingestion in Children: Timing and Outcomes
S Chennouf*, N Abdou*, H Choutri*, A el Gouacem*, A Bensebti*, Z Atrih*, H Zemouli**, A Bouguebs**, M Khellaf**, S Chabou**
*Boubnider University constantine3, Faculty of medecine, Department of pediatric surgery SMK Constantine
**Boubnider University Constantine ,Faculty of medecine, Department of pediatric critical care unit SMK Constantine
Introduction
Button battery ingestion is a pediatric emergency associated with severe complications, including tracheoesophageal fistulas and esophageal perforations.
Objective
This study aims to evaluate the role of surgery in managing these complications and to determine the optimal timing for surgical intervention.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on cases of button battery ingestion complicated by tracheoesophageal fistulas or esophageal perforations. The study focused on:
The surgical interventions performed.
Postoperative outcomes.
Factors influencing the timing of surgery.
Results
Key findings include:
- Urgent surgical interventions: Patients presenting with respiratory distress or hemodynamic instability required immediate surgical intervention.
- Stable patients: The timing of surgery was determined by:
- The presence of persistent symptoms.
- Imaging findings (e.g., CT scans, radiographs).
- Failure of medical and instrumental treatments.
- Availability of surgical resources.
Postoperative outcomes were generally favorable, with a significant reduction in complications following surgical management.
Discussion
Surgery plays a crucial role in managing complications of button battery ingestion in children. However, the timing of the intervention depends on:
The severity of clinical symptoms.
Careful assessment of the patient’s respiratory and hemodynamic stability.
A multidisciplinary approach and available resources.
An individualized management plan is essential to optimize clinical outcomes while minimizing postoperative risks.
Conclusion
Timely surgical intervention is critical in managing complications of button battery ingestion in children. Close collaboration between medical and surgical teams is necessary to determine the optimal timing for surgery and improve clinical outcomes.