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An Unfortunate Incident Of A Surgical Swab Left In The Sphenoid Sinus For Eight Years
Hamid Shah1, Imran Mohib Khan2, Ayub Khan1
1Final Year MBBS Student, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan.
JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
|September 12, 2023
Summary
A retained surgical swab, left after transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, caused 8 years of symptoms including anosmia and dizziness. This preventable complication underscores the need for strict surgical safety protocols.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Complications
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Retained foreign bodies are rare but preventable surgical complications.
- Accidental retention of surgical materials can lead to chronic patient symptoms and diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male experienced 8 years of persistent symptoms including cacosmia, ageusia, altered taste, nasal discharge, and dizziness.
- Symptoms began after undergoing a hypophysectomy via the transsphenoidal approach.
Findings:
- A retained surgical swab was discovered in the sphenoid sinus during nasal examination under general anesthesia.
- The swab was inadvertently left during the patient's hypophysectomy procedure 8 years prior.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical importance of meticulous adherence to surgical safety protocols.
- Preventable retained foreign bodies necessitate improved surgical checklists and post-operative vigilance to ensure patient safety.
