Uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic removal of a concealed percutaneously inserted sewing needle in the lung: A...

Percutaneous penetration of foreign bodies into the lung is exceptionally rare, with most reported cases involving entry through natural orifices such as the oral cavity or respiratory tract.

A 17-year-old adolescent was incidentally found to have a metallic sewing needle embedded in the right lung during imaging evaluation for unrelated symptoms. The foreign body had been retained for 9 years following a childhood needle-prick injury.

Imaging confirmed the presence of an intrapulmonary metallic foreign body consistent with a sewing needle.

Preoperative computed tomography-guided localization was performed to precisely identify the needle's position, followed by successful surgical retrieval using uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery to remove the foreign body and surrounding affected tissue.

The foreign body was completely removed with no intraoperative or immediate postoperative complications.

This case underscores the value of advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques in the management of rare intrapulmonary foreign bodies, particularly those retained for prolonged periods.