Gossypiboma-intraluminal foreign body without bowel obstruction: a rare case report

Abstract

Gossypiboma, the retention of surgical sponges’ post-operation, is a rare but serious complication. Intraluminal migration without causing bowel obstruction is exceptionally uncommon. A 35-year-old female presented with chronic abdominal pain nine years after undergoing open cholecystectomy. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a suspected intraluminal foreign body in the terminal ileum. Exploratory laparotomy identified an 8×6 cm retained sponge located 30 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve, entirely within the ileal lumen. The foreign body was removed via enterotomy, and a double-barrel ileostomy was performed due to localized edema. This case underscores the importance of considering gossypiboma in patients with a history of surgery presenting with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms. CT imaging is pivotal for diagnosis. Strict adherence to surgical safety protocols is essential to prevent such occurrences.