Foreign body ingestions in children and adolescents: A position paper of the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) endoscopy special interest group

Foreign body (FB) ingestion is a relatively frequent occurrence in the pediatric population with multiple potential sequelae. Appropriate intervention may range from urgent endoscopic retrieval to watchful waiting, with multiple variables influencing the decision. The four key variables include the type of object ingested, the anatomical location of the FB, the presence and severity of symptoms, and the time since ingestion. In this position paper, we provide an evidence-based approach to the management of ingested foreign bodies, incorporating expert opinion where existent evidence alone is insufficient to guide clinical judgement. We offer a clear, clinically relevant guide, with user-friendly algorithms, to assist in real-time decision making. We also include practical tips from experts on how to safely and effectively perform endoscopic removal of an ingested FB.