Abdominal gossypiboma - surgical towel

Case contributed by Mohamed Abdel-Tawab Mohamed
Diagnosis probable

Presentation

Intestinal obstruction symptoms. History of previous abdominal surgery.

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Female

Mild ascites and small pneumoperitoneum. Dilated small intestinal loops. Colonic loops are seen collapsed

A well-defined structure is seen in the left iliac region with a density similar to that of fecal matter (gases and low-density content), however, it is not continuous with the colon or any other structures.

Bilateral small pleural effusions with underlying subsegmental lung collapse.

The uterus is enlarged with thickened endometrium.

Case Discussion

There is a missed surgical towel in the left region seen as spongiform appearance with gas bubbles. The previous history of abdominal surgery is key to diagnosis.

It can cause adhesions or even get infected resulting in an internal fistula. Some towels have a radio-opaque element to help detection by plain radiograph.

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