In a chilling medical emergency that highlights the hidden dangers of online shopping, surgeons in New Zealand have successfully removed multiple high-powered magnets from a teenager's intestines after they caused severe internal damage.
The Online Purchase That Nearly Proved Fatal
The case, reported by Wellington Hospital surgeons, involved a teen who had swallowed several rare-earth magnets purchased from the popular discount shopping platform Temu. These tiny but incredibly strong magnets, often marketed as "Buckyballs" or neodymium magnets, can create devastating internal injuries when multiple pieces are swallowed.
How Tiny Magnets Create Catastrophic Damage
"When these powerful magnets separate inside the digestive system and then reconnect through intestinal walls, they essentially create a vice-like grip that cuts off blood supply," explained one medical professional familiar with the case.
The resulting damage can include:
- Perforation of intestinal walls
- Tissue necrosis from compressed blood vessels
- Bowel obstruction requiring emergency surgery
- Life-threatening infections if not treated promptly
A Growing Global Health Concern
This incident is part of an alarming trend that has medical professionals worldwide concerned. The accessibility of high-powered magnets through online marketplaces has led to a resurgence of magnet-related injuries in children and teenagers.
Despite safety regulations in many countries, these dangerous products continue to be readily available through international e-commerce platforms that operate across multiple jurisdictions.
Medical Experts Issue Urgent Warning
Wellington Hospital surgeons are using this case to alert parents and caregivers about the very real risks posed by these seemingly innocent desk toys and novelty items.
"Many parents don't realise just how powerful these small magnets can be," the medical team noted. "Unlike traditional magnets, these rare-earth magnets can maintain their attraction even through multiple layers of tissue, creating perfect conditions for serious internal injuries."
The medical community emphasises that any suspected ingestion of magnets requires immediate medical attention, as the window for preventing serious complications is often narrow.
