Related Experiment Videos

Gossypiboma-Induced Acute Abdomen Highlighting the Importance of Surgical Safety Protocols: A Case Report

Priyanka Panwar1, Jack Okumu1, Daisy Denga2

  • 1Department of Surgery The Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu Kisumu Kenya.

Clinical Case Reports
|June 15, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Gossypiboma, a retained surgical sponge, can cause serious complications like bowel obstruction. This case highlights the critical need for strict surgical safety protocols to prevent these preventable errors.

Area of Science:

  • Surgical Complications
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Patient Safety

Background:

  • Gossypiboma, a retained surgical sponge, is a rare but significant postoperative complication.
  • It accounts for nearly 50% of malpractice claims concerning retained foreign bodies and is often underreported.
  • Clinical signs include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and may necessitate surgical intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present a case of delayed diagnosis of gossypiboma leading to small bowel obstruction.
  • To emphasize the importance of surgical safety protocols in preventing retained surgical items.
  • To discuss diagnostic challenges and management of gossypiboma.

Main Methods:

  • Case report of a 56-year-old male presenting with symptoms of small bowel obstruction.
  • Diagnostic workup included CT imaging, followed by exploratory laparotomy.
  • Surgical management involved resection and anastomosis for a perforated ileal segment containing gossypiboma.

Main Results:

  • A retained surgical gauze (gossypiboma) was found within a perforated ileal segment 2 months post-appendicectomy.
  • Diagnosis was delayed due to the absence of a radio-opaque marker on the surgical gauze.
  • The patient recovered uneventfully after surgical resection and anastomosis.

Conclusions:

  • Gossypiboma can lead to severe complications, including adhesions and bowel perforation, requiring surgical intervention.
  • Accurate surgical sponge counts, use of radio-opaque markers, and intraoperative imaging are crucial for prevention.
  • Adherence to surgical safety protocols is paramount to prevent avoidable events and improve patient outcomes.
Keywords:
bowel perforationcase reportexploratory laparotomygossypibomasmall bowel obstructionsurgical safety protocolstextiloma

Related Concept Videos

Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:29

Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management

Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...