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Bezoar - Treatment

Alternative Names

Trichobezoar; Hairball

Treatment:

The bezoar may need to be surgically removed (especially trichobezoars which tend to be large). Sometimes small bezoars can be removed through a scope placed through the mouth and into the stomach (similar to an EGD procedure). Then, follow the prevention measures described.

Expectations (prognosis):

Full recovery is expected.

Complications:

Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you suspect your child has a bezoar.

Reviewed last on: 8/2/2011
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Kelsen J, Liacouras CA. Foreign Bodies and Bezoars. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 326.

Dehydration

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