Total laparoscopic repair of sigmoid foreign body perforation

Sonal Arora1, Hutan Ashrafian, Elliott D Smock

  • 1Department of Biosurgery and Surgical Technology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom. sonal.arora06@imperial.ac.uk

Insights

A 43-year-old male with sigmoid colon perforation from rectal foreign body abuse underwent successful laparoscopic repair and colostomy. This case highlights a minimally invasive approach for such rare gastrointestinal injuries.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Innovation
  • Abdominal Surgery

Background:

  • Rectal foreign body introduction can lead to severe intra-abdominal complications.
  • Sigmoid colon perforation is a rare but serious consequence requiring prompt surgical intervention.
  • Minimally invasive surgical techniques are increasingly explored for complex abdominal pathologies.

Observation:

  • A 43-year-old male presented with lower abdominal pain and generalized peritonitis after self-removal of a rectal foreign body.
  • Erect chest X-ray revealed pneumoperitoneum, indicating a perforated viscus.
  • Laparoscopy identified a sigmoid colon perforation, necessitating surgical repair.

Findings:

  • Successful total laparoscopic repair of the sigmoid colon perforation was achieved.
  • A temporary loop colostomy was created due to contamination, avoiding open laparotomy.
  • The patient experienced a short hospital stay and successful colostomy reversal at four months.

Implications:

  • This case demonstrates the feasibility and success of a totally laparoscopic approach for sigmoid perforation due to foreign body abuse.
  • Laparoscopic surgery offers potential benefits such as reduced hospital stay and faster recovery in managing such injuries.
  • This represents a novel approach, potentially setting a precedent for managing similar rare surgical emergencies.