Swallowed foreign bodies in adults

Magnetic-assisted detection and extraction of dispersed metallic foreign bodies in the abdominal cavity: A case report

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal foreign bodies represent a significant clinical challenge in emergency and surgical settings. While accidental ingestion predominates in healthy adults, intentional ingestion is frequently observed in pediatric, psychiatric, and incarcerated populations. Metallic sewing needles, characterized by their sharp morphology and high mobility, pose particular risks of visceral injury and complications due to their penetrative potential. Although preoperative imaging facilitates initial localization, subsequent migration of multiple needles complicates therapeutic interventions, increasing procedural complexity and patient risk.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a novel application of magnetic-assisted localization in managing a complex case of intentional ingestion of 30 metallic sewing needles in a psychiatric patient. The widespread distribution of needles throughout the gastrointestinal tract necessitated an innovative surgical approach. Intraoperative implementation of cylindrical magnetic localization technology enabled precise identification and successful extraction of all foreign bodies while minimizing tissue trauma.

CONCLUSION

Magnetic-assisted localization represents an effective and safe technique to manage multiple magnetic gastrointestinal foreign bodies. This approach offers significant advantages in complex cases, particularly for needle-like metallic objects, and warrants consideration as a valuable tool in gastrointestinal surgery.

Endoscopic Removal of a Magnet Retained in the Stomach for Two Years: A Case Report and Literature Review

Foreign body ingestion (FBI) is a common clinical presentation, with most cases occurring in children. While accidental FBI in adults is less frequent, it is often associated with psychiatric conditions or substance use disorders. Magnet ingestion is particularly concerning due to the risk of pressure necrosis, perforation, and fistula formation, yet reports of magnet retention in adults are exceedingly rare. We describe a 45-year-old male with a history of depression and substance use disorder who presented with a three-week history of progressive abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and foul-smelling belching. Imaging revealed a radiopaque foreign body in the distal gastric antrum, later identified as a 2.5 cm metallic disc-shaped magnet. Notably, a prior CT scan performed two years earlier had documented the same object, which the patient had presumed to be a dental filling and expected to pass spontaneously. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) successfully retrieved the magnet using a Roth net, with immediate symptom resolution. This case is unique due to the prolonged asymptomatic retention of a magnet for two years before the onset of gastric outlet obstruction symptoms. While most foreign bodies pass spontaneously, endoscopic retrieval is warranted for magnets to prevent potential complications. The prolonged retention without perforation or obstruction highlights the role of anatomic location and object characteristics in determining outcomes. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful endoscopic removal of a long-retained magnet in an adult using a Roth net. This case underscores the importance of considering FBI in the differential diagnosis of unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in high-risk patients. Early recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent severe complications. Endoscopic removal remains a safe and effective strategy even for delayed presentations, emphasizing the need for clinical vigilance in cases of unwitnessed FBI.

Perforation of the sigmoid colon with formation of a sigmoido-ureteral fistula caused by an ingested denture: a case report

Accidentally ingested objects such as dentures can have serious health consequences with damage to the gastrointestinal tract. We report the case of a patient who ingested her dental plate unnoticed, leading to a sigmoid perforation and formation of a sigmoido-ureteral fistula. The patient presented to our emergency department with symptoms 3 months after ingestion. After unsuccessful endoscopic retrieval, a low anterior rectal resection with retrieval of the swallowed denture and resection of the left ureter with subsequent reconstruction surgery was performed.

[Abdominal parietal abscess secondary to the absorption of a knife by a mental patient, Treichville University Hospital, Côte d'Ivoire]

Case Report

We present the successful management of the consequences of voluntary knife ingestion in a 24-year-old male with undocumented psychiatric disorders. The patient was admitted to the emergency department with a fistulized epigastric skin abscess, with the tip of a knife protruding from it. This extraordinary case involved the migration of an ingested knife, which perforated the stomach and externalized through an epigastric abscess. Surgical removal of the foreign body was performed.

Discussion

Several hypotheses explain the ingestion of the knife in a person with psychiatric disorders, including self-mutilation, the pernicious mystical influence of malevolent third parties, or self-administration of a neomystical ritual.

Conclusion

The development of a skin abscess secondary to foreign body ingestion is rare but should be considered in the absence of other causes.

Foreign body-intestinal canal angle guides management of ingested foreign bodies in the lower gastrointestinal tract

BACKGROUND

Determining whether prompt surgery is required for patient with ingested foreign bodies is clinically important.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the potential value of computed tomography (CT) in guiding the selection of surgical treatment for patients with ingested foreign bodies in the lower gastrointestinal tract.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and December 2023, we analyzed the data of 58 patients (median age: 65.4 years; range, 31-96 years) with ingested foreign bodies in the lower gastrointestinal tract who underwent CT examinations. Patients were treated either conservatively (35 cases) or surgically (23 cases). The angle between the long axis of the foreign body and the intestinal canal (FB-IC angle) was measured. CT findings and clinical variables were evaluated to identify potential indicators for surgical treatment through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed the FB-IC angle (P = 0.002), presence of free peritoneal gas (P = 0.002), white blood cell count (P = 0.018), and neutrophil count (P = 0.007) as significant factors associated with surgical treatment. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the FB-IC angle (odds ratio, 1.033; P = 0.045) and the presence of free peritoneal gas (odds ratio, 41.335; P = 0.002) are independent indicators for surgical management. The FB-IC angle showed an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.755, with a cutoff value of 51.25 degrees.

CONCLUSION

The FB-IC angle and presence of free peritoneal gas serve as potential predictive imaging markers for surgical intervention.

Successful Endoscopic Removal of an Ingested Thumbtack Stuck in the Ileocecal Valve in a Patient With a Psychiatric Disorder

Foreign body ingestion is sometimes missed during the initial evaluation of a patient with a psychiatric disorder in the emergency department. This is often due to a lack of awareness regarding the need for thorough physical and diagnostic imaging examinations. Additionally, the management of ingested foreign bodies is often controversial. It is essential to consider the risk of complications, especially with sharp objects in luminal organs, necessitating a cautious and attentive approach to the extraction strategy. A 20-year-old woman with autism spectrum disorder was brought to the emergency department after being found collapsed. Her consciousness improved upon arrival, and no abnormalities were noted except for mild epigastric tenderness. Based on her regular physical examination, blood tests, and electrocardiogram, the syncopal episode was attributed to psychological factors. However, the patient's mother provided critical information about missing thumbtacks from the patient's belongings and mentioned prior episodes of thumbtack ingestion. This information underscored the value of obtaining comprehensive patient history in forming an accurate diagnosis. Imaging studies revealed two thumbtacks in the duodenum and small intestine without signs of free air. Conservative management was chosen, and one thumbtack was naturally excreted on the fifth day, while the other remained stuck in the terminal ileum. A subsequent colonoscopy showed the tip of the thumbtack in the ileocecal valve's lumen, which was successfully removed with forceps without complication. Endoscopic removal of foreign bodies, being noninvasive, should be the first choice as long as it can reach the target. This technique minimizes patient discomfort and recovery time, instilling confidence in the medical team's management strategy. Furthermore, patients with mental health disorders or dementia, even when specific symptoms are absent, should be regarded as potentially at risk for incidental or unrelated medical conditions. Emergency physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion during initial evaluations. Gathering a comprehensive medical history, including prior behavioral patterns and habitual tendencies, is essential for accurate assessment and management.

Endoscopic removal of an esophageal foreign body and endoscopic closure of its associated perforation with early mediastinitis

A 55-year-old male swallowed fish bone accidentally and subsequently developed retrosternal pain. He underwent chest computed tomography at his local hospital on October 23, 2023, showing esophageal foreign body with suspected esophageal rupture. One day later, he underwent endoscopy at our department, showing a fish bone penetrated into the esophageal wall. After consultation with cardiothoracic surgeons, endoscopy-guided removal of this foreign body was performed under anesthesia. An esophageal ulcer with a length of 2cm was left with overflowing air bubbles, and was closed by three metal clips. Two days later, retrosternal pain disappeared. A tube was intubated to duodenal distal segment under endoscopy, via which enteral nutritional suspension was given. Then, he was discharged.

Lost and found: a unique foregut gastrointestinal bullet embolism

Bullet embolism is a rare phenomenon where a bullet migrates from its original point of entry to a distant site within the body. This brief report describes a case of a bullet embolism entering the gastrointestinal (GI) tract through the posterior oropharynx. The patient initially presented with a gunshot wound to the left scapula, and the bullet was later identified in the GI tract. The patient was managed with a combination of endoscopic techniques and serial imaging, avoiding unnecessary surgical intervention. This case underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnostic strategies and tailored management in GI bullet embolism. It also emphasizes the utility of endoscopy in detecting GI tract injuries and highlights the successful use of non-operative management in specific scenarios.

Sigmoid Perforation by an Ingested Foreign Body Mimicking Acute Appendicitis: A Case Report

Lower abdominal pain is a common complaint for patients presenting for evaluation in the emergency department. Among other life-threatening complications, acute appendicitis needs to be ruled out in the case of right-lower quadrant pain (RLQ). Sigmoid perforation caused by an ingested foreign body is an uncommon cause of RLQ pain. This report presents the case of an otherwise healthy, 29-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with RLQ pain. His initial evaluation raised concern for acute appendicitis. However, during his exploratory laparoscopy, he was found to have a perforated sigmoid colon due to a skewer stick; the patient had no recollection of having ingested any foreign body. This paper highlights the importance of considering the possibility of sigmoid perforation by an ingested foreign body as a possible cause of RLQ pain. The article also reviews the most common causes of ingested foreign bodies, their potential complications and management.

Ingestion of 14 Hearing Aid Batteries in an Adult Patient

Battery ingestion is not a common occurrence in adults. When it occurs in patients of any age, prompt action might be necessary, depending on the type of battery ingested, to prevent damage to the gastric mucosa that is involved in important secreting and absorbing functions required to maintain homeostasis. A 61-year-old Hispanic male presented to the emergency department with the chief concern of shortness of breath and abdominal pain. Incidentally, an X-ray demonstrated multiple round hyperdense foreign bodies in the ileum and cecum. Physical exam was positive for right-sided and periumbilical abdominal pain without any peritoneal signs. Upon colonoscopy, 14 hearing aid batteries of size 312 were discovered without evidence of perforation or obstruction. Ingestion of batteries in adults is a rare phenomenon. When an adult presents with ingestion of dangerous foreign bodies such as batteries, mental health is critical to consider in the history and treatment plan.

Ingested Foreign Bodies in the Sigmoid Colon Requiring Earlier Intervention in Patients With Prior Hysterectomy

The use of dentures and dental plates is widespread in the adult population. Accidental ingestion of these foreign objects is not uncommon, with the majority of patients having an uneventful passage of the object through the gastrointestinal tract. Of those patients requiring intervention, endoscopy is the most common, followed by surgical removal. We discuss a case of a patient with prior pelvic surgery and diverticulosis causing severe angulation of the bowel, resulting in non-passage of the foreign object requiring surgical intervention.

Diagnosis, treatment, and management of esophageal foreign bodies in patients with mental retardation: A retrospective study from three centers

BACKGROUND

This study aims to assess the outcomes and prognosis of surgical interventions aimed at removing esophageal foreign bodies in patients with mental retardation.

METHODS

Between January 2010 and January 2021, a total of 30 consecutive patients (20 males, 10 females; median age: 29.5 years; range, 2 to 57 years) with mental retardation who were diagnosed with esophageal foreign bodies and underwent surgical treatment were retrospectively analyzed. Age and sex of the patients, symptoms, type of the foreign body, esophageal stricture level, methods used for preoperative diagnosis, type of surgical procedure, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay were recorded.

RESULTS

Seventeen (56.6%) patients had a foreign body in the first narrowing, 12 (40%) in the second narrowing, and one (3.3%) in the third narrowing. A rigid esophagoscopy was performed in all cases. However, successful removal was not achieved in two (6.6%) cases, and foreign bodies were removed through cervical esophagotomy in one (3.3%) patient and through esophagotomy with right thoracotomy in one (3.3%) patient. Postoperative complications included esophagitis in seven patients (23.3%) and wound infection and pneumonia in two patients (6.6%). The median length of hospital stay after treatment was 1.09 days in patients without complications and 3.3 days in patients with complications. There was a significant correlation between the occurrence of complications and the length of hospital stay (p=0.002). The foreign body was successfully removed in all patients, and no mortality was observed.

CONCLUSION

Early diagnosis and emergency intervention can reduce complications, particularly considering the possibility of non-food and sharp-edged foreign bodies that pose a higher risk of damaging the digestive system, in patients with mental retardation than those without such conditions.

Fishing Out a Bone From the Neck

Foreign body ingestion is a common medical issue in Asian populations. Fish bones are the most commonly ingested foreign bodies due to the practice of cooking fish whole with bones intact, unlike in Western countries where fish are typically prepared as fillets or patties. Patients who have swallowed fish bones usually present with foreign body sensations, odynophagia, and pricking sensations during deglutination. Fish bones can generally be removed in an outpatient setting, but in some cases, patients must be placed under general anesthesia, where rigid esophagoscopy is performed. In some cases, neck exploration is required to extricate the bone. Here, we report the case of a 71-year-old man who underwent neck exploration for a 2.1 cm fish bone lateral to his thyroid cartilage, penetrating the left thyroid lobe.

Approaching a Fork in the Road: A Case of Aborting Endoscopy After Discovering a Retained Foreign Object

We describe a case of a 53-year-old female who presented for elective esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and eventually needed surgical intervention to remove a plastic fork that she accidentally swallowed twenty years prior while in prison. This article highlights approaches to retrieving a foreign object within the stomach via endoscopy, the importance of recognizing the risks of endoscopy, and serves as a reminder that we must be aware of the social determinants of health that pertain to our patients.

Migratory Fish Bone in the Hyoglossus: Catch Me if You Can

Foreign body ingestion is one of the most frequently encountered cases in otorhinolaryngology and most of the cases can be managed non-operatively. If left untreated, migration of foreign bodies can occur and presents a significant challenge in patient management. We hereby describe the case of an elderly gentleman who had a preceding history of fish bone ingestion and complained of dysphagia for two days. Clinical examination revealed swelling of the right vallecula with minimal pus discharge. Computed tomography (CT) of the neck confirmed the diagnosis of a migratory foreign body in the neck. He underwent open neck exploration and foreign body removal under intraoperative fluoroscopy guidance. A high index of suspicion of a migratory foreign body is warranted in cases of persistent, unresolved symptoms with the failure of endoscopic evaluation to detect the foreign body. Migratory foreign body of the neck may cause life-threatening complications and requires early surgical intervention.

Esophageal Button Battery Retrieval: Time-In May Not Be Everything

The management of ingested foreign bodies is a challenging task because each case is unique with multiple varying factors including a patient's age, anatomical considerations, clinical presentation, and the type and location of the foreign body ingested. Additionally, concern over complications associated with button battery ingestion typically drives management decisions. The common practice is the urgent retrieval of the foreign body within two to six hours of presentation. An unusual case is presented here that demonstrated significantly delayed endoscopic removal of an ingested button battery without complication, avoiding the many risks associated with any emergent endoscopic procedure. However, this practice is a case-by-case decision because there is a lack of literature to guide the current management.

Predictors of spontaneous passage of ingested foreign bodies in adults: twelve years of experience

BACKGROUND

Foreign body ingestion in adults is commonly encountered in clinical practice. The therapeutic approach of whether to follow-up or extract is often controversial.

AIM

We aimed to explore predictors for spontaneous passage of ingested foreign bodies by focusing on foreign body type, length, and location of impaction.

METHODS

We performed a 12-year retrospective single-center study. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify predictors of spontaneous passage.

RESULTS

Overall, 365 patients with foreign body ingestion were included. The rate of spontaneous passage was 53.7% in general, while the spontaneous passage rate was 47.9% in food impaction, 44.3% in sharp objects, 88.7% in blunt objects and only 22.2% in long blunt objects (> 6 cm). On regression analysis, esophageal location was associated with a higher impaction rate and lower spontaneous passage vs. stomach and small and large intestine (OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.07-0.31, OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.09-0.37 and OR 0.02, 95% CI 0.003-0.14), respectively. Performing Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis found that the maximal length above which the foreign body will fail to pass spontaneously was 3.5 cm in the stomach and 3 cm in the small intestine, with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.8509 in stomach and 0.8073 in small intestine.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic removal was needed for all esophageal foreign bodies, and all foreign bodies more than 3.5 cm above the duodenum. Spontaneous passage of ingested foreign body in a selected cohort of patients depends on foreign body type, location, and length.

Apple Core Unveiled: Malignant Colonic Obstruction Revealing an Unknown Rectosigmoid Neoplasm With Foreign Body Impaction

This case report highlights a rare clinical scenario of a 46-year-old male presenting with constipation and fecaloid vomiting due to an impacted chicken bone within an unidentified rectosigmoid neoplasm, leading to acute malignant colonic obstruction. Emergent exploratory laparotomy revealed an impacted chicken bone lodged in a previously unknown rectosigmoid tumor. An anatomopathological examination revealed a mucinous adenocarcinoma with clear margins and one pericolic metastatic lymph node. The postoperative period was uneventful, and the patient was proposed for adjuvant chemotherapy. The abrupt onset of symptoms allowed for an early diagnosis, emphasizing the unexpected association between foreign body impaction and incidental malignant obstruction. This case underscores the complexity of managing foreign body ingestion in the gastrointestinal tract and emphasizes the crucial role of diagnostic imaging in surgical planning. Furthermore, it draws attention to the potential occurrence of colorectal cancer in younger individuals, emphasizing the necessity for clinical vigilance and screening strategies beyond conventional age recommendations.

Radiolucent foreign body leading to complete small bowel obstruction: a diagnostic dilemma - a case report

Introduction and importance

Foreign body ingestion leading to luminal obstruction in both the small and large bowels is rare, especially in children. The authors present a case of a 7-year-old patient who presented with a small bowel obstruction caused by an ingested radiolucent foreign body. The previous herniotomy surgery 1 year back led to initial diagnostic confusion, highlighting the need for a broad differential diagnosis.

Case presentation

A 7-year-old child with a history of herniotomy presented with symptoms of small bowel obstruction. Radiological imaging revealed a soft tissue mass mimicking a polyp or cystic lesion. During exploratory laparotomy, a cystic structure was discovered in the terminal ileum. The foreign body, identified as a fluid-filled balloon, was inaccessible to endoscopy and was gently maneuvered into the ascending colon. It was punctured and removed during on-table colonoscopy.

Clinical discussion

This case underscores the challenges of diagnosing and managing luminal obstruction caused by radiolucent foreign bodies in children. The presence of previous surgery can mislead clinicians, necessitating a broad differential diagnosis. Radiological imaging played a crucial role in identifying the foreign body. Surgical intervention guided by an on-table colonoscopy allowed successful removal.

Conclusion

Foreign body ingestion leading to luminal obstruction should be considered, even in cases with previous abdominal surgery. Radiological imaging aids in identification, and timely surgical intervention, guided by on-table colonoscopy, facilitates foreign body removal. Awareness of such cases is essential for optimal care in pediatric patients with luminal obstruction caused by foreign body ingestion.

Removing 216 sharp metal foreign objects from the digestive tract of a 30-year-old male: case report

Introduction and importance

Foreign body (FB) ingestion and its complications are abundant in emergency departments. This potentially severe problem had a peak incidence in children aged 6 months to 6 years. Intentional adult cases are voluntary and more common in prisoners and people with psychiatric problems. However, most patients (90%) remain asymptomatic, and these pass through the body spontaneously.

Case presentation

The authors report a case of surgically removing plenteous sharp-pointed metallic foreign bodies ingested by a young male deaf-mute bipolar schizoaffective patient from his stomach, intestine, and rectum. Furthermore, the authors have reviewed the available literature for similar cases.

Clinical discussion

Less than 1% of patients need surgical removal, 10-20% need to be taken out endoscopically, and the remaining pass spontaneously. Plain radiography is the most available imaging modality detecting the number, material, and estimated place of the alimentary canal trapped.

Conclusion

For the risk of perforation, migration, and peritonitis, surgery is indicated in such situations.

Unusual Case of a Foreign Body in Tracheo-Esophageal Party wall

Foreign body ingestion is a common problem among children and less so with adults. Most patients are asymptomatic and require no treatment while some need acute management depending on type, size, shape, duration, symptoms and physical findings. Here we present an unusual case of foreign body ingestion which perorated through the pyriform fossa and lodged in tracheoesophageal party wall requiring surgical exploration.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-023-03698-1.

When Meals Turn Into a Medical Mystery: A Case Report of Sigmoid Colon Impaction by a Chicken Bone

The presence of foreign objects in the digestive system can lead to various complications within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In certain cases, ingesting foreign objects can pose a significant dilemma for surgical teams, primarily because they can lead to blockages or punctures in the upper or lower sections of the GI tract. On occasion, foreign objects located in the lower regions of the digestive tract, such as the colon and rectum, might have entered via the anal pathway, thereby carrying the potential risk of causing perforations in the rectum or sigmoid colon. The other complications encompass the creation of abscesses, blockages in the bowel, fistula, and bleeding. Although these issues associated with foreign objects can arise in a healthy bowel, they can pose challenges in diagnosis when occurring in a bowel that is already affected by inflammation, constrictions, or malignancy. We present a unique case report of a 72-year-old female who presented to the emergency department with left lower quadrant pain associated with nausea and vomiting. Following a detailed clinical evaluation and radiographic imaging, a chicken bone was identified as the culprit, causing an unusual impaction in the sigmoid colon. The patient's medical history revealed no prior GI complications, making this case particularly noteworthy. Timely identification and precise diagnosis of complications arising from foreign bodies are essential to efficiently handle and prevent unfavorable consequences.

Toothpick: An Unusual Cause of Small Bowel Perforation in an Adult

Foreign body ingestion is a common complaint in the pediatric population; however, in adults, this entity remains quite rare. Most cases are managed conservatively with serial examinations and imaging. Rarely, foreign body ingestion may cause small bowel perforation and peritonitis in adults. Perforation often warrants operative management, and assessment of bowel viability is crucial. Here, we present a case of foreign body ingestion requiring exploration, without the need for bowel resection or repair. Although the need for operative intervention in adults after foreign body ingestion remains rare, it is crucial to recognize those patients who are both at risk for foreign body ingestion and have underlying small bowel narrowing that puts them at risk for perforation. A high index of suspicion in these instances is mandatory as early recognition and appropriate treatment will improve outcomes.

Pediatric Magnet Ingestion with Delayed Presentation: Case Series from Tertiary Center in Saudi Arabia

Swallowing foreign bodies is common in young kids, especially those aged 6 months to 6 years. Magnet ingestion is a hazardous health issue that extremely jeopardizes the most vulnerable group, children, to risks of intestinal obstruction and worse, perforation. We, hereby, report 3 cases of magnet ingestion in the pediatric age group who had multiple beaded magnets stuck inside their GI tract over a variable period of 1 to 10 months before their presentation to the Emergency Department, King Fahad Medical City Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Spontaneous colonic perforation and abdominal wall extrusion of an orally ingested fork handle

Most ingested foreign bodies pass through the gastrointestinal tract spontaneously, but a small number of cases lead to complications and necessitate surgical intervention. We present a rare case of an ingested fork handle that perforated silently through the colon and fistulated through the abdominal wall. This case highlights the importance of balancing the risks and benefits of surgical intervention and the multidisciplinary approach to complex situations.

Removal of a fish bone endangering the common carotid artery under general anesthesia with video laryngoscope: A case report

A fish bone penetrating the digestive tract is a common emergency, and its removal often requires endoscopy. We report herein a case in which a fish bone punctured the throat; its front end was close to the common carotid artery, but its back end could not be visualized. Subsequently, we compared the pharyngeal CT and carotid CTA of the patient and found that the fishbone had shifted. So we considered that the end of the fish bone could be rediscovered and successfully removed by a video laryngoscope. Finally, with the patient under deep sedation with maintained spontaneous breathing, the fish bone was removed using video laryngoscopy. This case highlights the importance of rechecking CT scans and the use of laryngoscopy when determining the location of a shifted foreign body at different times and when selecting the removal method.

Surgical Management of an Intentionally Ingested Vape Device Chronically Impacted within the Duodenum of an Adult Male

Most foreign body ingestion cases are accidental in the adult population. Intentional ingestion of foreign bodies in adults is typically associated with psychiatric disorders or developmental delay. In most cases, foreign bodies pass spontaneously through the gastrointestinal tract or can be managed endoscopically. Rarely, surgical intervention is indicated. We present a unique case of surgical management of an intentionally ingested vape device that was chronically impacted within the duodenum of an adult male present for six weeks before intervention without associated perforation. The foreign object was removed via exploratory laparotomy with duodenotomy and primary duodenorrhaphy with an uncomplicated postoperative course. There are only two previously reported cases of an ingested vape device. One was managed by observation, and the other was removed endoscopically. There are no previously reported cases of an ingested vape device that required surgical management.

A Case Report of Non-intentional Foreign Body Ingestion in an Elderly Patient

Foreign body ingestion is a common problem that can result in severe consequences. It occurs commonly in children and rarely in adults. High-risk adults include illicit drug users, prisoners, edentulous adults, alcoholics, psychiatric patients, adults with mental retardation, or those with decreased oral tactile sensation. In adults, most foreign body impactions are seen in patients with pre-existing pathologies, such as malignancy, achalasia, strictures, and esophageal rings. Complications that foreign bodies may cause in some cases are tracheoesophageal fistula, aorto-esophageal fistula, and intramural perforation. This case illustrates the importance of including foreign body ingestion in the differential diagnosis of dysphagia in high-risk groups, even when no clear history suggests this as a cause, which may decrease the complications.

Intentional Ingestion of Foreign Bodies: A Physician's Agony

Intentional foreign body ingestion is the phenomenon wherein one swallows a non-digestible object with the intent to cause self-injury. It is intentional in adult patients with a positive psychiatric history and can be a recurrent issue. Although the incidence of this condition is increasing, there are few existing articles on the subject that highlight its importance. This case report aims to present a unique patient encounter to emphasize the multispecialty approach required for management and provide an overview of the literature available on the subject regarding types of objects swallowed, selection of appropriate imaging modalities, and plans of management.

A case of accidental ingestion of a hooked denture without symptoms for 6 years

Six years prior, the patient accidentally swallowed a denture during a meal and immediately visited a nearby doctor. However, because spontaneous excretion was expected, regular imaging testing was used to monitor it. After 4 years, although the denture was still in the small bowel, as there were no symptoms, the regular follow-up was terminated. Because the patient's anxiety increased, he visited our hospital 2 years later. Surgery was performed, as it was determined that there was no possibility of spontaneous excretion. The denture was palpated in the jejunum. The small intestine was incised, and the denture was removed. As far as we know, there are no guidelines prescribing a clear follow-up period for accidental denture ingestion. In addition, there are no guidelines specifying surgical indications in asymptomatic cases. Nonetheless, there have been reports of gastrointestinal perforations with dentures, and we consider that earlier preventive surgical intervention is better.

Ingested Chicken Bone (Xiphoid Process) in the Anal Canal: A Case Report and Literature Review

Accidental foreign body (FB) ingestion is common in the elderly, particularly edentulous and denture wearers. The most commonly ingested FBs are food-related, including fish and chicken bones. While small FBs can pass through the gastrointestinal tract without any complications, large or irregular-shaped FBs usually cause complications. These complications include choking, ulceration, perforation, fistula, abscess formation, or even death. Ingestion of a large chicken bone that reaches the anal canal without causing injury is extremely rare. We present a rare case of accidental chicken bone (xiphoid process) ingestion that manifested itself by projecting from the anus while defecating. Interestingly, the patient did not experience any food choking or abdominal pain, nor did she have any type of dementia. However, the patient could not grind food properly due to the loss of her upper molar teeth, which made her develop a habit of rapid swallowing. On examination, the chicken bone was seen within the anus with a sharp edge embedded in the mucosal wall. While a plain pelvic X-ray failed to display the FB, a pelvic CT scan with a 3D illustration showed its dimensions (5.0 x 2.5 x 3 cm). A plain pelvic CT scan confirmed the presence of the bone-contrast FB within the anal canal without injuring the surrounding anatomical structures. The FB was gently manipulated and successfully extracted after administering 5 ml of lidocaine gel enema. The patient was counseled regarding proper chewing habits, and she was referred to a dental clinic for a professional assessment. Seven days later, the patient was seen again at the clinic for a follow-up and was found to have an uneventful recovery. Maintaining good dental health and proper eating habits, as well as increasing awareness among edentulous individuals and denture wearers, are required to prevent accidental FB ingestions.

Intra-Abdominal Abscess of Unusual Origin

This article describes the case of a woman who unknowingly swallowed several fishbones, one of which perforated the intestinal wall and subsequently formed an intra-abdominal abscess due to the foreign body reaction.

Endoscopic Removal of an Intramurally Ingrown Foreign Body in the Angular Fold of the Stomach

Eine 67-jährige Patientin mit chronischer Gastritis stellte sich wegen zunehmenden epigastrischen Schmerzen in der Notaufnahme vor. Auf Grund einer nicht wegweisenden Initialdiagnostik wurde eine Computertomographie des Abdomens durchgeführt. In dieser stellte sich ein Fremdkörper am Magenausgang dar. Unter radiologischer Kontrolle erfolgte ein anspruchsvolles, zeitintensives endoskopisches Freipräparieren des Fremdkörpers. Nach postinterventionellem Abschwellen der Schleimhaut konnte in einer zweiten Sitzung ein Fischknochen geborgen werden. Die aufwendige endoskopische Intervention bewahrte die Patientin vor einer Operation.

Evaluation of the risk factors for severe complications and surgery of intestinal foreign bodies in adults: a single-center experience with 180 cases

BACKGROUND

Foreign bodies (FBs) lodged in the intestine or causing intestinal complications are uncommon in clinical practice but may pose diagnostic difficulties and prove life-threatening. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for severe complications and surgery to aid clinicians in the diagnosis and management of intestinal FBs.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients in whom FBs were lodged in the intestine or caused complications from 2010 to 2020 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (Zhejiang, China). The characteristics of the patients and FBs, symptoms, imaging findings, diagnostics, treatment strategies, and clinical outcomes were analysed. Furthermore, the risk factors for complications and surgery were investigated.

RESULTS

In total, 180 patients were included in our study. Most patients (76.1%) were unable to provide a history of ingestion. Bezoars were the most common FBs (35.6%). The FBs were mainly located in the duodenum (32.8%) and the ileum (27.8%). Surgical removal of FBs was successful in 89 (49.4%) patients and endoscopic removal in 54 (30.0%) patients. Eleven with perforations were treated conservatively. FBs located in the jejunum or ileum were more likely to cause severe complications than those located in the duodenum. FBs located in the jejunum, ileum, or sigmoid colon were more likely to undergo surgery, and severe complications were an independent risk factor for surgery.

CONCLUSION

Intestinal FBs, often localized in angulation, are likely to be misdiagnosed because most patients do not provide a history of FB ingestion. Surgery and endoscopic therapy are the most commonly used treatment modalities. Surgery is not mandatory in clinically stable patients with small and contained perforations. FBs located in the jejunum or ileum are risk factors for both complications and surgery.

Dental Prosthesis in Esophagus: A Right Cervicotomic Approach

Foreign body ingestion in the upper digestive tract is a relatively common emergency. Less than 1% have to be treated surgically. We report the case of a 68-year-old man who ingested a dental prosthesis, probably during a seizure, and thus unknowingly, and presented two days later to the emergency department complaining of a mild dysphagia. A chest radiograph showed the presence of a removable dental prosthesis in the upper esophageal tract. The patient was brought to the operating room where a multidisciplinary equipe was assembled. Two attempts of retrieval with a flexible and a rigid endoscope failed because the removable dental prosthesis was stuck in the right pyriform sinus. Therefore, the surgeon performed an uncommon right cervicotomy and retrieved the foreign body through a right-side esophagotomy. The surgical approach depends on the nature and location of the foreign body. Urgent treatment is required whenever the patient develops dyspnea or dysphagia because of the high risk of inhalation and asphyxia. Removal of any esophageal foreign body has to be performed within 12-24 h. Repeated attempts to retrieve large dental prosthesis using an endoscope may result in esophageal perforation therefore when such risk of complication is too high, a surgical approach becomes inevitable. In our opinion, surgery remains the extrema ratio after a failed endoscopic retrieval attempt but can be lifesaving despite high risk of complications.

A Rare Case of an Exploratory Laparotomy to Treat a Liver Abscess Secondary to Foreign Body Ingestion

A 49-year-old female presented to the hospital with complaints of generalized weakness, subjective fevers, and chills. In the emergency department (ED), she was found to be hypotensive and tachycardic and met the sepsis criteria. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis (CT A/P) with contrast revealed a liver abscess and a foreign body (FB) that was suspected to be the cause of the liver abscess. Of note, the patient had undergone a recent dental procedure due to an infected root canal, which had involved a dental screw. The patient was uncertain whether the dental screw had been removed, but she felt as though it was no longer there. At this time, the clinical suspicion was high for FB secondary to this dental procedure. The patient underwent interventional radiology (IR)-guided liver abscess drainage and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) for the evaluation of the FB. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) was performed, but no evidence of the FB was found. This warranted an exploratory laparotomy (EL) to ensure the successful removal of the FB. Upon gross visualization by surgery, the FB was revealed to be a bone that the patient did not recall ingesting. However, surgical pathology evaluation revealed that the FB was actually a plastic stick. This rare case highlights the clinical approach to FB ingestion when complicated by liver abscess, as well as successful treatment with EL as opposed to laparoscopy which is the procedure of choice.

Esophageal Perforation following Accidental Ingestion of a Razor Blade

Background

Ingestion of sharp foreign bodies is uncommon and often underreported. It can present with esophageal perforation which is a life-threatening complication requiring prompt diagnosis and management. Case Presentation. We report a case of accidental ingestion of a razor blade in a chronic alcoholic who presented with hematemesis after an esophageal perforation, the diagnosis of which was confirmed by radiology.

Conclusion

Early recognition of esophageal perforation is crucial for early intervention. Proper history taking and radiological investigations are a key to reaching a diagnosis.

Neck and mediastinal hematoma caused by a foreign body in the esophagus with diagnostic difficulties: A case report

BACKGROUND

Esophageal foreign body (FB) is a common clinical emergency. Clinically, computed tomography (CT) scans are important in the diagnosis of FBs in the esophagus. Here, we report a case of esophageal perforation and cervical hematoma, caused by a FB, whose uniqueness made rapid diagnosis difficult.

CASE SUMMARY

A 42-year-old man was transferred to our hospital with esophageal perforation, which was accompanied by cervical and mediastinal hematoma. CT scans only revealed a black shadow, approximately 2.5 cm in diameter, in the upper esophagus. After multidisciplinary discussion, he was quickly subjected to mediastinal hematoma resection, peripheral nerve compression release, esophageal FB removal and esophagectomy. Eventually, we removed a small crab with a pointed tip from his esophagus.

CONCLUSION

This was an unusual case of occurrence of sharp polygonal esophageal FBs caused by a small crab. Rapid diagnosis of this FB was difficult, mainly due to its translucent nature. Occurrence of sharp FBs, with cavities that sometimes only appear as black shadows on CT scans, can easily be mistaken for esophageal lumens. More attention should be paid to such sharp polygonal FBs.

Submucosal protuberance caused by a fish bone in the absence of preoperative positive signs: A case report

BACKGROUND

Submucosal protuberance caused by fish bone insertion into the digestive tract has rarely been reported. These cases usually include patients with clear signs such as a history of fish intake, pain, and dysphagia, as well as positive findings on endoscopy and imaging. Here, we report a case of a fish bone hidden in the submucosal protuberance of the gastric antrum during endoscopic submucosal dissection without preoperative obvious positive signs.

CASE SUMMARY

A 58-year-old woman presented with epigastric pain for the past 20 d and a submucosal protuberance. Abdominal computed tomography and endoscopic ultrasonography did not indicate the presence of a fish bone. We assumed the cause to be an ordinary submucosal eminence and performed an endoscopic submucosal dissection to confirm its essence. During the operation, a fish bone approximately 20 mm in length was found incidentally.

CONCLUSION

Our report could potentially prevent the oversight of embedded fish bones and associated adverse effects in patients with similar presentation.

Emergent Endoscopy for Esophageal Foreign Body Removal: The Impact of Location

Background

Timely intervention is essential for the successful removal of ingested foreign bodies. Emergent endoscopy (EGD) is usually performed in the emergency department (ED), operating room (OR), intensive care unit (ICU), or endoscopy suite. However, because the endoscopy suite is not always available, this study investigated the impact of location outside of the endoscopy suite on the successful removal of ingested foreign bodies and other patient outcomes.

Methodology

We reviewed charts of patients who underwent EGD for foreign body removal at an academic quaternary center between January 01, 2012, and December 31, 2020. We defined successful EGD as retrieval of the foreign body at the first attempt and not requiring subsequent endoscopy or surgical intervention. We performed descriptive and inferential statistical analyses and conducted classification and regression trees to compare endoscopy procedure length (EPL) and hospital length of stay (HLOS) between different locations.

Results

We analyzed 77 patients, of whom 13 (17%) underwent endoscopy in the ICU, 46 (60%) in the OR, and 18 (23%) in the ED. Endoscopic removal failed in four (5%) patients. Endoscopy length was significantly shorter in the OR (67 (48-122) minutes) versus the ICU (158 (95-166) minutes, P = 0.004) and the ED (111 (92-155) minutes, P = 0.009). Time to procedure was similar if the procedure was performed in the ED (278 minutes), the ICU (331 minutes), or the OR (378 minutes). The median (interquartile range) of HLOS for the OR group (0.87 (0.54-2.03) days) was significantly shorter than the ICU group (2.26 (1.47-6.91) days, P = 0.007).

Conclusions

While performing endoscopy for esophageal foreign body removal in the OR may be associated with a shorter EPL and HLOS, no location was inferior for overall outcomes. Further prospective and randomized studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Hypopharyngeal Perforation Following Foreign Body Ingestion: A Case Report

Foreign body ingestion is a common complaint frequently seen in otolaryngology. Some sharp foreign bodies may get impacted in the aerodigestive tract causing a perforation. However, hypopharyngeal perforation is a rare injury that needs early recognition due to its significant morbidity. In this case report, we report a case of hypopharyngeal perforation caused by foreign body ingestion in an adult patient. A 60-year-old female presented with a foreign body sensation in the throat, dysphagia, and odynophagia. A neck CT scan showed a foreign body in the hypopharynx with a collection of free air along the posterior pharyngeal wall. She underwent laryngoscopy and esophagoscopy for examination and foreign body removal. Following the procedure, the patient was treated conservatively for a week and then discharged home in a stable condition. Hypopharyngeal perforation following foreign body ingestion is uncommon. A high index of suspicion is required to reach an early diagnosis and treatment.

What Happens When the Digested Screw Does Not Come Out of Ileum?

Adults with foreign body ingestion are mainly secondary to psychiatric disorders, alcoholic intoxication, and secondary gains. Conservative management without any intervention is successful in 80% of the ingested foreign bodies. Risk factors for complication include sharp objects, objects larger than 6 mm, recurrent ingestion, and previous gastrointestinal tract surgeries. Sharp objects specifically account for 35% perforation rates and impactions, most commonly at the ileocecal valve. There is limited evidence on the role of colonoscopy after the distal migration of foreign bodies into the ileum and colon.

In our case report, we present a case of a 53-year-old-male with a history of recurrent foreign body ingestion secondary to a multitude of psychiatric disorders. It describes multiple foreign body ingestions, leading to failure of a screw at the ileocecal valve at day 5 of ingestion, despite conservative management with serial bowel preparations and abdominal radiographs. There is limited evidence on the management of foreign bodies after distal migration to the ligament of Trietz. Existing literature and guidelines suggest surgically managing the sharp foreign bodies after the failure of conservative management for three to five days.

In the case report, we have attempted to emphasize the noninvasive, colonoscopic approach as initial management in removing impacted foreign bodies.

This abstract has been presented and accepted at the American college of gastroenterology meeting held from October 22, 2021, to October 27, 2021, in Las Vegas as a poster.