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Related Experiment Videos

Silicone drain mimicking a surgical sponge.

J Herbetko1, H J Burhenne

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.

Radiology
|February 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary

Radiographs can make surgical sponges and Snyder Hemovac drains appear similar. Always confirm a patient does not have this drain in place when a retained surgical sponge is suspected to prevent misdiagnosis.

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Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Surgical Safety
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • Retained surgical sponges are a known complication in surgery.
  • Radiopaque markers in surgical drains can mimic retained foreign objects on imaging.
  • Snyder Hemovac drains are silicone drains with radiopaque components.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the radiographic similarity between retained surgical sponges and Snyder Hemovac drains.
  • To emphasize the importance of differentiating these two entities in postoperative imaging.
  • To prevent potential misdiagnosis and ensure patient safety.

Main Methods:

  • Review of radiographic findings.
  • Comparison of imaging characteristics of retained sponges and Snyder Hemovac drains.
  • Discussion of challenging diagnostic scenarios.

Main Results:

  • Surgical sponges and the radiopaque portions of Snyder Hemovac drains exhibit similar appearances on radiographs.
  • Differentiation is particularly difficult in obese patients, or those with overlying dressings or abdominal distension.
  • Misidentification can lead to incorrect clinical decisions.

Conclusions:

  • Radiographic evaluation alone may be insufficient to distinguish between a retained surgical sponge and a Snyder Hemovac drain.
  • Clinical correlation and confirmation are crucial when a retained surgical sponge is suspected.
  • Awareness of this imaging pitfall is essential for radiologists and surgeons.

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