Retained Surgical Sponge in the Pelvis From Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Cervix Brachytherapy

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided brachytherapy is an essential component of curative treatment in locally advanced cervical cancer. The use of interstitial needles improves local control rate for locally advanced cervical cancer compared to intracavitary brachytherapy alone. Bleeding is one of the most common complications from cervix interstitial brachytherapy, typically managed by pressure with surgical sponge/packing with or without a hemostatic agent. Herein, we present a case of stage IVA cervical cancer with retained surgical sponge in the pelvis from magnetic resonance imaging-guided intracavitary/interstitial brachytherapy, and recommendations for future brachytherapy procedures.