To explore the application value of imaging examinations and digestive endoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal foreign body in children, especially in complicated cases with unclear history and protracted course.

Two cases of esophageal stenosis in children with dysphagia and no clear history of foreign body ingestion were reported, and the diagnosis and treatment process was shared.The specific application of imaging and endoscopic techniques in diagnosis and treatment was analyzed, providing ideas for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Both cases were ultimately diagnosed with esophageal foreign bodies via electronic gastroscopy, which revealed impacted foreign bodies at the stricture sites (the parents later recalled histories of foreign body ingestion over 6 months and 2 years prior, respectively).Both children underwent endoscopic foreign body removal in the operating room.Intraoperatively, hook knives were used for gradual radial incisions, and snare devices were employed to piecemeal resect locally hyperplastic granulation tissue.After dissection and exposure of the foreign bodies, they were successfully removed using foreign body forceps combined with guidewires.In Case 1, esophageal perforation and pneumothorax were detected during the procedure, and closed thoracic drainage with placement of a covered retrievable esophageal stent was performed for perforation sealing.In Case 2, esophageal perforation and ulceration were complicated, and a nasogastric feeding tube along with an esophageal drainage tube was inserted. Postoperatively, both patients received regular endoscopic treatment for secondary esophageal strictures.To date, both patients are able to eat normally via the oral route and show satisfactory growth and development.

Esophageal foreign body impaction is a common cause of acquired esophageal stenosis in children.For cases with unclear history of foreign body ingestion, long time of impaction, and high risk of complications, attention should be paid to the detailed evaluation of imaging and digestive endoscopy to obtain key diagnostic clues and assist in making the optimal treatment decision.Multidisciplinary preoperative evaluation and precise endoscopic operation during surgery can help effectively deal with complications and avoid unnecessary surgical operations.At the same time, public health education should be strengthened to raise awareness of gastrointestinal foreign bodies in children and promote early diagnosis and treatment.