Israeli Infant Swallows Family Heirloom Safety Pin, Saved by Hadassah Medical Team

A routine afternoon for a young family in a Judean Hills moshav turned into a medical emergency when their six-month-old son, Adir David, swallowed a safety pin attached to a gold amulet passed down for 40 years. The pin, intended to protect against the evil eye, detached from its place above the infant's crib and was ingested by the baby. Upon arrival at Hadassah Medical Center in Ein Kerem, doctors discovered the open safety pin had pierced the stomach lining, posing a serious risk of internal injury.

Dr. Ze'ev Davidovitch, a pediatric gastroenterologist, explained that the sharp ends of the open pin were embedded in the stomach wall, requiring a delicate endoscopic procedure to remove it without causing further damage. The medical team, including nurse Tal Ilser, successfully extracted the pin intact within about 30 minutes, avoiding open surgery. After a brief recovery, Adir was returned to the pediatric ward in good condition.

The infant's mother, Tair, recounted the frightening moment she heard choking sounds and crying, realizing the pin was missing from its usual spot. She immediately sought help, and after initial imaging at a clinic confirmed the pin was inside the stomach, they rushed to Hadassah for urgent care. The family expressed immense relief and gratitude for the swift and professional treatment.

Medical staff emphasized the dangers of hanging sharp or small objects, including safety pins, jewelry, or pacifier holders, near infants' sleeping areas. Dr. Davidovitch warned that even objects with sentimental value can pose serious hazards if they become detached and swallowed. He urged parents to seek immediate medical attention if a child is suspected of ingesting a sharp object, regardless of whether the child appears well.

Tair hopes their experience will serve as a cautionary tale for other parents. "No matter how secure you think an object is, never leave anything above a baby's crib," she said. The family is thankful their son recovered fully and is now safe at home.