Exploratory Laparotomy and Gastrotomy for Long Metallic Gastric Foreign Bodies Presenting With Hematemesis: A Case...

Foreign body ingestion in adults is a clinically significant condition that may lead to serious complications, particularly in cases involving intentional ingestion of high-risk objects. We report the case of a 34-year-old woman who presented with a two-day history of hematemesis after intentionally ingesting two metallic foreign bodies approximately two weeks before admission. Imaging studies, including abdominal radiography and computed tomography, revealed elongated metallic objects measuring up to 6.8 cm within the stomach, associated with focal gastric wall thickening. Given the size of the objects, the presence of gastrointestinal bleeding, and the unavailability of therapeutic endoscopy, surgical management was pursued. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy with gastrotomy, allowing the successful extraction of the foreign bodies and primary closure reinforced with an omental patch. Her postoperative course was uneventful, with progressive recovery and no recurrence of symptoms at follow-up. This case underscores the importance of early recognition, appropriate imaging, and timely intervention in high-risk foreign body ingestion, as well as the role of surgical management when endoscopic treatment is not feasible.