US-guided Localization and Removal of Soft-Tissue Foreign Bodies

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Radiology

Background:

• Soft-tissue foreign bodies are common reasons for medical consultation.
• Physical examination often lacks sensitivity for foreign body detection, necessitating imaging.
• Foreign bodies can be vegetal, metallic, glass, or medical devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a technique for ultrasound (US) detection and removal of foreign bodies.
• To discuss the efficacy of US-guided foreign body removal.
• To highlight US as a first-line treatment for symptomatic foreign bodies.

Main Methods:

• Foreign bodies are detected using ultrasound (US), which visualizes echogenic objects with characteristic artifacts.
• US guides the percutaneous removal procedure by directing surgical forceps through a small incision.
• The technique is applicable to various foreign body types and locations.

Main Results:

• Ultrasound (US) demonstrates high specificity and moderate sensitivity for foreign body detection.
• US-guided removal is a highly effective, nonsurgical technique.
• The effectiveness of US-guided percutaneous removal approaches 100%.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided foreign body removal should be considered a first-line treatment.
• This minimally invasive technique is highly effective for managing symptomatic foreign bodies.
• US is the imaging modality of choice for evaluating suspected foreign bodies.