A harrowing incident in Satara turned into a story of miraculous recovery, thanks to swift medical intervention in Pune. A two-year-old boy accidentally ingested acetic acid, suffering severe internal and external burns, but was successfully treated and discharged after a critical week-long battle for his life.
A Life-Threatening Mistake
The accident occurred on November 14, when the toddler mistook the corrosive acid for drinking water. The liquid was stored in a clear plastic bottle, leading to the tragic confusion. Upon ingestion, the acid caused immediate and severe burns to his lips, mouth, and food pipe. Spillage also resulted in painful chemical injuries on his chest and groin area.
Dr. Milind Jambagi, head of the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children in Pune, described the situation as a life-threatening emergency. "The child was gasping for breath and crying in severe pain. The damage from such chemical ingestion in toddlers begins instantly and can worsen rapidly," he explained.
Race Against Time: Critical Care and Transport
Recognising the gravity of the boy's condition, the hospital dispatched a special ambulance to Satara. To ensure his airway remained open during the crucial journey, the medical team secured him on ventilator support for the transport to Pune.
"On arrival, the boy had scald burns over his body. An immediate endoscopy revealed corrosive injuries to the food pipe, though fortunately, no perforation was detected," stated Dr. Jambagi. The medical team faced a dual challenge: managing the compromised airway from internal injuries while simultaneously treating the external burns.
A Remarkable Recovery and a Family's Trauma
The boy remained on ventilator support until his breathing stabilised. His feeding was carefully managed, starting through a tube to protect his injured food pipe and transitioning to oral intake only after his swallowing function improved. Through what doctors termed "timely stabilisation, safe ventilated transport, and prompt endoscopic evaluation," lethal complications like necrosis, perforation, shock, and sepsis were prevented.
The toddler was cautiously taken off the ventilator and finally discharged on November 21, marking a remarkable turnaround. For his family, the week was an unimaginable ordeal. "Seeing our little boy struggling to breathe and scream in pain is something no parent should ever witness," shared his mother. "Watching him slowly open his eyes, breathe without support, and take his first sip of water again felt like witnessing a miracle."
A Vital Safety Advisory for All Parents
In the wake of this incident, medical experts have issued a strong advisory to families. Dr. Jambagi emphasised, "This case is a stark reminder to store all household chemicals, medicines, and sharp objects safely, completely out of the reach and sight of children." He noted that accidents often happen when parents are momentarily distracted, even if they are nearby. Constant vigilance and proper storage are non-negotiable for toddler safety at home.
The successful treatment of the Satara toddler underscores the importance of specialised paediatric critical care and serves as a powerful warning about everyday hazards lurking in homes.
