Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

A Two-Step Method for Percutaneous Transhepatic Choledochoscopic Lithotomy
Published on: September 13, 2022
Duodenal perforation and right hydronephrosis due to toothpick ingestion
Giuseppe R Nigri1, Emilio Di Giulio, Raffaella Di Nardo
1Department of Surgery, La Sapienza University of Rome, II School of Medicine, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
We report a case of a 36-year-old man who was admitted to the Emergency Department with right flank pain. The clinical presentation was suggestive of renal colic. However, a computed tomography scan showed the presence of a foreign body in the inferior duodenal flexure. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy demonstrated a 6.5-cm wooden toothpick deeply embedded in the duodenal wall; this was removed via endoscopy. The peri-duodenal inflammatory reaction had encased the right ureter, resulting in hydronephrosis. The patient did well and was discharged on post-operative day 7. He did not recall toothpick ingestion. When evaluating patients with acute abdominal pain, foreign body ingestion should be considered. In patients with a history of toothpick ingestion, immediate diagnosis with endoscopic management should be performed.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Complications
Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Peptic Ulcer Disease II: Pathophysiology