Israeli Infant Survives After Swallowing Family Heirloom Safety Pin in Emergency Endoscopic Removal

A six-month-old baby named Adir David was rushed to Hadassah Medical Center in Ein Kerem after swallowing a gold safety pin that had been a family amulet for 40 years, believed to protect against the evil eye. The pin, which hung above his crib, came loose and was ingested, prompting an urgent medical response. Upon arrival, doctors discovered the safety pin was open and its sharp ends had pierced the stomach lining, posing a serious risk of internal injury.

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

Adir's mother, Teir, recounted the frightening afternoon when she heard choking sounds and crying, quickly realizing the pin was missing and that her son had swallowed it. The family initially sought care at a clinic where X-rays confirmed the pin's presence in the stomach before transferring to Hadassah. She emphasized the importance of keeping small or sharp objects away from infants, even those with sentimental value.

Dr. Davidovich warned parents against placing pins, jewelry, or cords near babies' beds, noting that such items can easily become dangerous if detached. He advised immediate medical evaluation if a child swallows a sharp object, regardless of whether the child appears well, due to risks of perforation, infection, or internal bleeding. The incident highlights the need for vigilance in infant environments to prevent similar emergencies.

The family expressed immense relief and gratitude for the swift and expert care that saved their son's life. Teir urged other parents to avoid placing any objects above cribs, stressing that good intentions do not outweigh safety risks.