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Battery Ingestion (cont.)

Exams and Tests

  • Radiographic studies of the entire digestive system may be taken. Disk batteries have a characteristic double-density (2-layer) shadow on x-rays. Laterally, their edges are rounded, and they contain a step-off junction at the positive and negative terminal. This can help distinguish them from coins and buttons.

  • If a battery is located in the esophagus (food pipe), immediate removal is necessary.



Next: Battery Ingestion Treatment »

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Disk Battery Ingestion »

Disk batteries are small, coin-shaped batteries used in watches, calculators, and hearing aids.

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Medical Dictionary