Mortality in a case of crystal gel ball ingestion: an alert for parents

Abstract

Decorative crystal gel balls are used for decoration purpose. Due to their attractive appearance they may be ingested by children. This may result in grave complications. A case of decorative crystal ball ingestion is being reported in a 6 months old infant who presented with sub acute intestinal obstruction and was operated. Crystal gel balls were causing obstruction of jejunum. Enterotomy and removal of the mass of jelly balls was done with primary closure. The patient was re-operated for anastomotic disruption on 6th postoperative day. Baby developed septicemia, and succumbed after 2 days of second operation.

Keywords: Jelly balls; Mortality; Crystal balls.

Figure 1: GIT contrast study showing obstruction and filling defect in the proximal jejunum.

Figure 2: CT scan showing a hypo-dense intraluminal bowel mass.

Figure 3: The retrieved crystal jelly material from small bowel.