Chronic Ulceration and Sinus Formation due to Foreign Body: An Often-Forgotten Problem

Area of Science:

• Medical Case Reports
• Surgical Complications
• Immunology

Background:

• Foreign bodies, such as suture or mesh remnants, can elicit a foreign body reaction.
• This reaction may manifest as sinus formation, cavity development, chronic secretion, and ulceration.
• Such complications can arise even after seemingly simple surgical procedures.

Observation:

• A case report details a 49-year-old male with a 9-year history of sinus formation stemming from a foreign body reaction.
• The condition was challenging to diagnose, even with advanced imaging techniques.
• Persistent secretion and sinus formation were the primary clinical manifestations.

Findings:

• Foreign body reactions are often overlooked causes of chronic post-surgical complications.
• Fistulography and ultrasound scanning are identified as optimal diagnostic tools for identifying the causative foreign body.
• Complete resolution was achieved by diagnosing and removing the inciting foreign material.

Implications:

• Re-establishing awareness of foreign body reactions within the healthcare system is essential.
• This is particularly important in fields utilizing implanted foreign materials.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention can prevent prolonged morbidity associated with these reactions.