Button battery in the nasal cavity: A case report

Nugraha, Ida Bagus Yoga and Widnyana, Ayu Usha Vedaswari and Suwandara, I Wayan (2025) Button battery in the nasal cavity: A case report. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 31 (3). 035-039. ISSN 2581-3250

Background: Button batteries represent a hazardous nasal foreign body encountered in otorhinolaryngology due to their electrochemical properties. Their small size and accessibility make accidental insertion into the nasal cavity common among children. Rapid tissue damage can occur, making early detection and intervention critical. Case Description: A 3-year-old female patient was brought to the hospital approximately one hour after she had inserted a foreign item into her left nasal passage. Clinical and radiological assessments identified the object as a button battery. Due to the patient's lack of cooperation, removal was postponed and ultimately carried out under general anesthesia 11 hours after insertion. During surgery, necrotic tissue was identified in the anterior region of both the inferior turbinate and the nasal septum, but without evidence of septal perforation. Postoperative management included antibiotics, corticosteroids, and nasal irrigation. Regular follow-up was advised. The patient recovered well, with residual mucosal necrosis noted on the inferior turbinate. Conclusion: Prompt diagnosis and removal of intranasal button batteries are essential to prevent severe complications. Radiographic imaging, endoscopic-guided extraction, and proper postoperative care are key components of management. Caregiver education is vital to prevent similar incidents.