Rectal Foreign Body Removal in the Emergency Department: A Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Rectal foreign bodies (RFBs) are challenging presentations for emergency physicians.
• Patient reticence can delay diagnosis and intervention.
• Heightened clinical suspicion is crucial for timely management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of successful emergency department (ED) extraction of a rectal foreign body.
• To review the literature on managing RFBs.
• To underscore the importance of physician preparedness for RFB cases.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient presenting with a rectal foreign body.
• Literature review of existing studies and management strategies for RFBs.
• Description of the extraction technique used in the ED setting.

Main Results:

• Successful non-surgical extraction of the rectal foreign body was achieved in the ED.
• The case demonstrates the feasibility of in-department intervention.
• Literature review supports various extraction methods.

Conclusions:

• Retained RFBs are a significant cause of ED visits requiring specialized management.
• Emergency physicians must be proficient in diagnosing and treating RFBs.
• Appropriate management can prevent the need for surgical intervention.