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Updated: May 19, 2026

Transvaginal Mesh Insertion in the Ovine Model
Published on: July 27, 2017
Rectal impalement injury through the pelvis, abdomen and thorax
1University of Aberdeen, UK.
Abstract:
Impalement rectal injuries with intraperitoneal organ injuries are rare. It is even rarer for such injuries to result in pelvic, abdominal and thoracic internal injuries. We present the case of a 39-year-old man who was admitted after an assault where a broken broomstick was inserted forcibly into his rectum. Surgery revealed penetration through the rectum, dome of the bladder, mesentery, liver and right lung. The patient survived following management by a multispecialty surgical team. Our literature review identified four similar cases with one fatality only. Prognosis seems to be good in these types of injuries provided there is an early presentation, the penetrating object is left in situ before the operation and, most importantly, there is an organised team approach to deal with the various injuries.
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