A rare case of abdominal foreign bodies; laparoscopic removal of a sewing needle

Foreign body (FB) ingestion is a common condition. Mostly FBs are found ingested accidently or intentionally in children and adults with mental status alterations. Depending on the type of object, different complications can occur. There exist numerous methods for removing each specific FB. Fortunately, most FBs tend to move uneventfully through the gastrointestinal tract without any intervention; but managing some foreign objects can be difficult and lead to severe complications. Endoscopy helps with the diagnosis and treatment of these cases, but the time of the management plays an important role.

A 26-year-old female who intentionally swallowed two sewing needles, presented to our emergency department with abdominal pain two months after the FB ingestion. One of the sewing needles was spontaneously excreted through the bowel, and the other was present in her body for two months. The FB had penetrated the stomach and migrated to the peritoneal cavity. The patient's condition was managed by laparoscopic removal of the FB and repair of the damaged tissue. According to the traumatic nature of the needle to abdominal viscera, and standing outside the GI tract on the pancreas surface, laparoscopic removal of the foreign metallic body was chosen to be performed. No complication was seen during the postoperative period.

This report emphasizes the importance of prompt evaluation of FB patients and finding the appropriate method of managing its complications. Preventing complications requires focusing on symptoms and instant management of the ingested FBs.