(361) Outcomes of Pediatric Battery Ingestion: A 10 Year Analysis

Introduction: Foreign body ingestion is a common clinical presentation to the pediatric emergency department (ED). Battery ingestion can be life threatening due to the possibility of esophageal burns and perforation. The purpose of this study was to understand the national incidence and disposition outcomes for children who present with a history of battery ingestion.

Methods: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) was queried for aspiration/ingestion injuries involving batteries in patients 0-18 years old from the year 2012 through 2021. Demographic information included: age, race, and sex of the patient. Location where the injury took place and disposition of the patient following ED treatment were also recorded. National yearly estimates of battery (N) ingestion injuries are included.

Results: A total of 2,799 battery ingestion injuries were identified for a national estimate of 67,768 injuries. The majority of injuries occurred in males (59.3%, N=1,659) and mean age at time of ingestion was 3.5 +/-3.3 years. 51.9% (N=1,453) of children were Caucasian, 10.8% (N=303) were Black/African American, and 4.7% (N=131) were Hispanic. 59.1% of battery ingestions occurred at home (N=1,653), 1.9% in public (N=52), and 1.0% at school (N=27). The majority of the individuals were treated in the ED and released (N=2,297, 82.1%). However, 12.5% (N=351) admitted to the hospital, 3.1% (N=86) were transferred, and 0.9% (N=26) left without being seen. There were no fatalities reported. The frequency of injuries per year significantly varied, with the highest number in 2020 (N=382) and the lowest in 2015 (N=207) (p < .001).

Conclusions: Frequency of battery ingestion injury is increasing in recent years. Public health measures should be taken so parents are aware of this health hazard, as about 13% of children who present with a history of battery ingestion appear to undergo in-hospital treatment.