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Gastrointestinal "crosses": an indication for surgery.
1Department of Surgery, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri 65212, USA. jelosanoff@usa.net
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|October 6, 2001
Summary
Ingesting "crosses," a unique paperclip foreign body, consistently causes gastrointestinal perforation. Emergency surgery is crucial for removing these devices and treating resulting peritonitis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Case Reports
- Medical Devices
Background:
- A novel foreign body, termed a "cross," is designed to intentionally cause gastrointestinal perforation.
- This unique device is constructed from modified paperclips and elastic bands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the clinical experience with "cross" foreign body ingestion.
- To highlight the management and outcomes of patients presenting with gastrointestinal perforation caused by these devices.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of nine male prisoners who ingested "crosses" between 1994 and 1999.
- Description of the "cross" foreign body's construction and mechanism of injury.
- Surgical intervention for foreign body removal and peritonitis treatment.
Main Results:
- Nineteen "crosses" were removed from nine patients requiring emergency surgery.
- Perforations occurred throughout the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, pylorus, and colon.
- No patient experienced morbidity or mortality following surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- "Cross" foreign bodies invariably cause gastrointestinal perforation and do not pass spontaneously.
- Prompt emergency surgical intervention is essential for successful management and favorable outcomes.