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After 40 years gossypiboma caused spleen abscess
Mihovil Ivica1, Mario Ledinsky, Bozo Radić
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital "Sestre milosrdnice", Zagreb, Croatia. mihovil.ivica@gmail.com
Collegium Antropologicum
|October 29, 2009
Summary
A rare spleen abscess caused by a retained surgical sponge (gossypiboma) was found 40 years after surgery. This case highlights the importance of surgical technique to prevent such delayed complications.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Gossypiboma, a retained foreign body from surgery, can lead to delayed complications.
- Splenic abscesses are uncommon and can present with vague symptoms.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old woman presented with acute abdomen, revealing an intra-abdominal spleen abscess.
- Imaging (ultrasonography and CT) suggested acute abdomen, leading to exploratory laparotomy.
- Histological examination confirmed foreign body material consistent with gossypiboma.
Findings:
- The spleen abscess was successfully treated with capsulotomy, drainage, and splenectomy.
- The gossypiboma was linked to a prior extrauterine pregnancy surgery 40 years earlier.
- This represents the longest reported latency period for a spleen abscess due to gossypiboma.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for meticulous surgical practices to prevent retained foreign bodies.
- Delayed diagnosis of gossypiboma can lead to severe complications like splenic abscess.
- Raising awareness and education are vital to minimize surgical errors and improve patient outcomes.
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