Introduction: The problem of foreign bodies of the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract in recent years is particularly relevant. The incidence does not tend to decrease due to the proliferation of battery-powered toys, constructors and magnets, as well as the carelessness of parents. The most frequent localization of foreign bodies is another physiological narrowing of esophagus (about 60 – 70%), stomach about 20%, intestines – 10%. The main complications of a foreign body in the esophagus and stomach include: esophageal obstruction, sores, perforation of their walls with the development of mediastinitis or peritonitis. The greatest danger is posed by batteries, because they contain alkali, which corrodes the mucous membrane. 

Aim: Analysis of the number of cases and consequences of foreign bodies entering the gastrointestinal tract in pediatric practice.

Materials and methods: In the conditions of the Sumy pediatric hospital with pathology of a foreign body of esophagus and gastrointestinal tract during 2018 – 23 children were treated, for 2019 – 28, in 2020 – there were 41 such cases.

Results: All children were admitted for emergency indications with different age of the disease with complaints of pain, difficulties in swallowing, increased salivation, vomiting. When a foreign body entered the stomach and intestines 25 children had an involuntary excretion, and 63 children underwent esophago- and gastroscopy with extraction of the foreign body. 2 children required laparotomy due to the large size of foreign bodies (bonded magnets, trichobezoar). The worst consequences occurred in two children with prolonged exposure of the battery in the esophagus. Thе esophageal perforation, mediastinitis, and later – cicatricial esophageal stenosis developed. 

Conclusions: The frequency of accidents involving foreign bodies can be reduced by actively explaining to parents through the media. Physicians should be vigilant in collecting medical history during the treatment a patient with the above complaints, because the presence of the battery in the esophagus for more than 6 hours leads to perforation of its wall and the development of life-threatening complications.