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Severe tissue destruction in the ear caused by alkaline button batteries | JoVE Visualize

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Severe tissue destruction in the ear caused by alkaline button batteries

D J Premachandra¹, D McRae

¹Department of Ear Nose and Throat Surgery, Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, UK.

Postgraduate Medical Journal|January 1, 1990

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Leaking button batteries can cause severe tissue damage, including liquefaction necrosis of skin, bone, and the tympanic membrane, when lodged in the ear canal.

Area of Science:

Otolaryngology
Materials Science

Background:

Button batteries are common household items.
Button batteries contain corrosive electrolyte solutions that leak upon moisture exposure.

Observation:

Three cases are presented where button batteries lodged in the external auditory meatus.
The lodged batteries leaked, exposing surrounding tissues to corrosive substances.

Findings:

Exposure to the leaked electrolyte solution resulted in liquefaction necrosis.
Necrosis affected the skin, bone, and tympanic membrane in the affected ears.

Implications:

This highlights a significant risk of button battery ingestion or lodging in body cavities.
Prompt identification and removal of button batteries are crucial to prevent severe tissue damage.

Electrical Energy Transmission, Networks And Systems

Severe Tissue Destruction In The Ear Caused By Alkaline Button Batteries