The ingestion of a button battery lodged in the esophagus is an emergency due to the risk of rapid tissue necrosis from electrical discharge, pressure necrosis, and leakage of caustic contents. The presence of drooling suggests esophageal obstruction or injury. Immediate endoscopic retrieval is critical to prevent severe complications such as perforation, fistula formation, or mediastinitis. Delay in removal increases the risk of fatal outcomes. Thus, urgent transfer to a facility capable of endoscopic battery extraction is the correct management.

Reference: Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics, Kliegman R, 21st Edition.