In an unusual medical case from Jiangsu province, China, an 11-year-old boy had to undergo surgery after swallowing a 100-gram gold bar while playing at home. The boy, surnamed Qian, reportedly alerted his parents after noticing swelling in his abdomen. Though he didn’t feel pain or discomfort, the bloating alarmed his family enough to rush him to Suzhou University Affiliated Children’s Hospital.
X-Ray Reveals Metallic Surprise in Boy’s Intestines
As reported by the South China Morning Post, doctors performed an X-ray and found a solid metallic object lodged inside the boy’s intestines. A follow-up scan confirmed the object to be a gold bar weighing approximately 100 grams.
Initially, the medical team hoped to avoid surgery and administered medication, anticipating the gold bar would pass naturally. However, after two days, a scan showed the object hadn’t moved at all, raising fears of an intestinal blockage or internal damage.
30-Minute Surgery Saves the Day
To prevent complications, doctors opted for an endoscopic surgery. The procedure, performed by two surgeons, lasted just 30 minutes and successfully removed the gold bar without incident.
Following the operation, Qian recovered well and resumed a normal diet within two days. Doctors confirmed there was no long-term damage, and the boy was soon discharged from the hospital.
Not the First Swallowed Treasure
Such incidents are not new to Chinese doctors. In a similar case from 2023, a four-year-old boy swallowed a bracelet made of 18 magnetic beads. Initially suspected of having appendicitis, an ultrasound revealed the beads lodged in his abdomen.
Doctors Urge Parents to Stay Vigilant
Medical professionals advise parents to remain cautious. Children should be closely monitored at home, and all hazardous or small items must be kept out of their reach.
