Handheld Metal Detector Confirmation of Radiopaque Foreign Bodies in the Esophagus

Abstract

Our data suggest that handheld metal detectors may obviate the need for repeated radiographs in patients whose foreign bodies cannot be removed at presentation.

The use of a hand-held metal detector for localisation of ingested metallic foreign bodies - a critical investigation

“…Generally, the diagnosis and localisation of swallowed metallic foreign bodies (MFBs) is determined by taking X-ray films of the neck, chest and/or abdomen [10]. The successful use of hand-held metal detectors (HHMD) has been preliminary reported to confirm the position of MFBs in the upper gastrointestinal tract [11]. In a prospective study, we compared the use of a HHMD to conventional radiography to assess the efficiency of the HHMD in our series of paediatric patients.…”

Metallic foreign body in esophagus: Are multiple radiographs necessary?

“…[9] In a review of prospective studies of the ability of the handheld metal detector to identify the presence or absence of ingested coin in children, Lee et al found the overall sensitivity of the metal detector at detecting coins to be 99.4% and accuracy at localization was 99.8% and overall specificity was 100%. [10] Siekel et al reported that even in the hands of the inexperienced, metal detectors were absolutely accurate in this localization.…”

Endoscopic Management of Pediatric Airway and Esophageal Foreign Bodies

“…Younger et al performed a 2-year prospective study of patients presenting for evaluation of esophageal foreign bodies. With a hand-held metal detector, they were able to positively identify the presence and location of esophageal coins in all 26 patients who had positive plain films [42]. Lee et al performed a systematic review of 11 studies and found that the sensitivity and specificity of identifying the presence of coins was 99.4% and 100%, respectively, when compared to plain films.…”