Accidental Magnet Ingestion in A Toddler: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Foreign body ingestion is common in children. Ingestion of foreign bodies with magnetic properties are less common, but can be associated more severe complication, especially involving multiple magnets. We present a 16-month-old boy developmental delay who developed small bowel perforation following magnet ingestion. He had three days history vomiting and abdominal distension pain, suggestive an acute intestinal obstruction. Abdominal imaging confirmed ingestion, exploratory laparotomy revealed two magnets attracted across the lining resultant obstruction perforation. Surgical removal necrotic tissue was complicated by post-operative wound dehiscence. After secondary suturing, child subsequently made complete recovery. discuss diagnostic dilemma along importance early recognition prompt management due to risk gastrointestinal complication delayed intervention.