Sharp Object in the Belly: A Case of Pediatric Intentional Razor Blade Ingestion in the Emergency Department

Abstract

Ingested foreign object (FOB) is a common complaint in the emergency department (ED), especially in pediatric patients. While many FOB ingestions are benign, sharp objects, including razor blades, are of particular concern given the acute risk of perforation throughout the gastrointestinal tracts. The majority of razor blade ingestions involve prisoners and psychiatric patients, which can complicate the diagnosis and treatment. Although literature suggests that risks of perforation and complication may be high, limited research available on sharp FOB ingestions supports a general non-interventional strategy. Instead, close follow-up and serial radiographs for natural passage are recommended for the majority of cases. We highlight the case of a 17-year-old female who presented to the ED for suspected FOB ingestion and was found to have a singular 3.0 x 0.5 cm razor blade on abdominal radiograph following an unremarkable initial evaluation. In line with prior literature, surgical consult supported natural passage with serial radiographs, and the patient was subsequently discharged home with a recommended bulk food diet.