Gastrocolic Fistula in a Child Following Ingestion of Multiple Magnetic Beads

Foreign body ingestion is common in the pediatric population and can be challenging to manage due to delays in diagnosis. Ingestion of multiple magnets is particularly hazardous, as it can lead to pressure necrosis, perforation, and fistula formation, often necessitating urgent endoscopic or surgical intervention. We report a case of a four-year-old boy who developed a gastrocolic fistula following ingestion of multiple magnetic beads that initially remained undiagnosed. Although five beads were removed endoscopically, complete retrieval was not possible. Emergency laparotomy revealed a gastrocolic fistula between the posterior gastric antrum and the transverse colon, with the remaining magnets lodged within the fistula tract. The retained beads were removed surgically, and the gastric and colonic defects were repaired primarily. This case emphasizes that both parents and clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for magnet ingestion and pursue early imaging and timely intervention to prevent serious gastrointestinal complications.