Purpose or Case Report: Fidget spinners (FS) have become an increasingly popular toy among children of all ages since April 2017. This toy comprises of a central bearing attached to two or more prongs made of plastic or metal and is designed to be spun between a user’s fingers. With its popularity, FS have grown diverse in design, featuring additional components including light-emitting diode units, Bluetooth speakers, and button batteries. With its multiple small components, FS pose a risk of ingestion and aspiration among young children. This may be incidental or accidental due to the rapidly spinning nature of the toy. Since May 2017, there has been a growing number of cases of FS ingestions among young children internationally. Recognition of the different components of a FS on imaging, especially plain radiography, is important in the early diagnosis and prompt and accurate management of foreign body ingestion. To date, there is no available educational resource to aid and guide radiologists and clinical providers in identifying FS as a foreign body. The purpose of this educational exhibit is to assist radiologists and clinicians to identify the imaging findings associated with FS-related foreign body ingestions.
Methods & Materials: Radiographic images of twelve different FS were obtained. An internet search on case reports and news articles was performed and six cases of FS ingestion with radiographic imaging were compiled.
Results: On radiographic imaging, the internal components of different FS vary widely in shape, size and density. Adjusting contrast and brightness on plain radiography allows for better visualization of the different densities and components within the FS.
Conclusions: FS have become an increasingly popular toy among children this year and have been recognized as a foreign body internationally. FS comprise of small components that may lead to aspiration, small bowel obstruction and perforation, and caustic chemical injury due to the button batteries. The growing diversity among FS design may delay recognition and management. Along with obtaining a thorough clinical history, identification of FS on radiographic imaging is essential in early management and prevention of complications associated with foreign body ingestion.