Abstract: Objective To summarize the characteristics and prognosis of ingested super absorbent polymer balls in children, thus to provide basis and guidance for future clinical treatment. Methods The clinical data of 32 cases of ingested super absorbent polymer balls in children in Qilu Childrens Hospital of Shandong University were retrospectively analyzed, including age, gender, time of swallowing, location of foreign body, imaging examination, digestive endoscopy, treatment, complication and prognosis. Results A total of 32 cases of ingested super absorbent polymer in children were collected, including 18 males and 14 females, mean age was(2.75±1.55)years, median time of swallowing was 5.00(3.25, 13.50)h. Foreign bodies were mainly lodged in the small intestine and the stomach. Clinical symptoms and complications were found in 7 patients(21.88%). Symptoms included vomiting, abdominal distension, abdominal pain, crying, and refusal to eat; complications were mainly intestinal obstruction and electrolyte disturbance. Totally 20 cases(62.50%)discharged automatically, 5 cases(15.63%)by gastroscope, and 7 cases(21.88%)by surgery operation. All cases had good prognosis and no deaths occurred. The occurance rate of complications in the group with swallowing time < 12 hours had no statistical difference with the group with swallowing time ≥12 hours(P=0.327). Conclusion Super absorbent polymer balls is harmful to children. Early diagnosis and intervention is helpful to reduce the occurrance of complications. More precautious measures should be taken for children.

Key words: Ingested foreign body, Super absorbent polymer ball, Children