What is the most common site for foreign body impaction in children?

The most common site for foreign body impaction in children is the proximal esophagus. This area is notably where the esophagus transitions from the pharynx, making it a narrow point that often serves as a site for entrapment. The anatomical structure of the esophagus, particularly in younger children, contributes to the higher incidence of foreign body impaction in this region.

Children are frequently prone to swallowing small objects due to their natural curiosity and tendency to put items in their mouths. When these swallowed objects encounter the narrow area of the proximal esophagus, they are more likely to become lodged. Furthermore, the presence of surrounding anatomical features, such as the cricoid cartilage and the aortic arch, can contribute to constriction in this area, increasing the likelihood of impaction.

In contrast, locations such as the distal esophagus, duodenum, and gastric fundus are less common for foreign body impaction due to wider luminal diameters, less curvature, and the natural peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract that helps in moving objects along.