Foreign body ingestion results in approximately 1,500 to 1,600 deaths annually in the US, ranking as the second most common reason for emergency gastrointestinal endoscopy. A review in Gastro Research outlined the epidemiology, imaging protocols, and management strategies. Most ingested items pass without intervention within 48 hours to 1 month, while high-risk groups include young children and intoxicated individuals. Early endoscopy is crucial for cases of suspected esophageal impaction, particularly with dangerous items like button batteries, which require timely intervention to prevent severe complications.

Source: Gastro Research