Self-embedding behavior: radiologic management of self-inserted soft-tissue foreign bodies

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Interventional Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Self-embedding behavior (SEB) involves patients intentionally embedding foreign objects into soft tissues.
• Embedded soft-tissue foreign bodies (STFBs) present unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Image-guided foreign body removal (IGFBR) offers a minimally invasive approach for STFB extraction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze a series of self-embedding behavior (SEB) cases.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of image-guided foreign body removal (IGFBR) for embedded soft-tissue foreign bodies (STFBs).
• To evaluate the radiologist's role in managing SEB.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 11 adolescent patients (mean age 16) with SEB treated with IGFBR.
• Data collected included foreign body characteristics, imaging modality (ultrasonography/fluoroscopy), and removal success.
• Evaluated 76 embedded soft-tissue foreign bodies (STFBs) of various types and sizes.

Main Results:

• The majority of STFBs were located in the arm (69/76).
• Foreign bodies included metal, plastic, graphite, glass, wood, crayon, and stone.
• Image-guided foreign body removal (IGFBR) successfully removed 68 STFBs in 11 patients without complications, using small incisions (mean 6 mm).

Conclusions:

• Increased awareness of SEB can empower radiologists to identify cases early.
• Radiologists can initiate interdisciplinary teams for prompt SEB intervention.
• Percutaneous radiologic treatment of STFBs via IGFBR is a safe, precise, and effective method.