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Laparoscopic removal of a chronically retained gauze
1Department of General Surgery, AZ Groeninge, Campus St. Niklaas, Kortrijk, Belgium.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|March 28, 2003
Summary
A retained gauze pad, left after surgery 22 years prior, caused thoracic pain in a 49-year-old man. It formed an aseptic granuloma and was successfully removed laparoscopically.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- A 49-year-old male presented with referred right thoracic pain.
- The pain was attributed to a surgical intervention for gastric perforation performed 22 years prior.
Observation:
- A subphrenic encapsulated aseptic granuloma was identified.
- The granuloma surrounded a retained gauze pad, which had decomposed into semi-liquid material and small particles.
- The gauze could not be removed in one piece and required a retrieval basket.
Findings:
- Laparoscopic removal of the encapsulated gauze granuloma was performed.
- The retained foreign body (gauze) was successfully extracted, albeit in fragments.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for long-term complications from retained surgical materials.
- Early detection and complete removal of foreign bodies are crucial to prevent granuloma formation and potential infection or malignancy.
- Laparoscopic techniques offer a minimally invasive approach for managing such delayed complications.