The abdominal x-ray shows 4 rounded metal opacities joined together visible in the right pelvic area, likely in the distal small bowel. The child had swallowed magnets.

This patient was asymptomatic and was managed conservatively with serial x-rays performed for monitoring.

Magnetic foreign body ingestion if more than one, can cause complications due to pressure necrosis of the bowel wall if the magnets are at different levels in the GI tract. These patients should be discussed with appropriate specialists as per local policy.

If the patient is being discharged after appropriate consideration, serial abdominal x-rays are needed to ensure passage. Strict advice should be given to parent to watch the child for abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding PR etc.

Reference: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1875957220300966