Electric wire as a urethral foreign body: A case report

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Interventions

Background:

• Self-insertion of urethral foreign bodies can stem from various causes, including impulse control issues and intoxication.
• Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying urethral foreign bodies, detailing their presence, location, and characteristics.

Observation:

• A 48-year-old male presented with a 2-year history of a urethral mass, accompanied by scrotal swelling, ulceration, elevated white blood cell count, and urinalysis abnormalities.
• Genitourinary ultrasound revealed an 8.3 cm linear hyperechoic object in the urethra, with CT showing a hyperdense penile lesion.
• Intraoperative findings confirmed an electric wire foreign body within the urethra, entangled in fibrous tissue, causing urethral rupture.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention via urethrotomy was required for foreign body removal after endoscopic treatment failure.
• The 8.3 cm electric wire was successfully removed, and the patient experienced no discomfort during a 45-day follow-up period.

Implications:

• This case underscores the diagnostic utility of ultrasound in identifying complex urethral foreign bodies.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing urethral foreign bodies and preventing complications like perforation.
• Advanced imaging and surgical techniques are essential for successful treatment of long-standing urethral foreign bodies.