A laparoscopic approach to gastric foreign bodies. A video case presentation

Abstract

 

INTRODUCTION: Foreign body ingestions are one of the common reasons for Emergency Department applications. Although it is mostly seen in the pediatric age group, adult patients could be more complicated. The majority of swallowed foreign bodies could pass through the digestive system spontaneously. Only %1 of them needs surgical interventions. In this study, we present a case that swallowed his denture and needs surgical treatment.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 59-year-old male patient was admitted to Emergency Department for swallowing his dental prosthesis accidentally. He had the feeling of being stuck in his chest while swallowing, and there were no additional symptoms. On the chest x-ray, it was detected in the middle part of esophagus. Upper Gastrointestinal System Endoscopy was performed to remove it. Foreign body was detected in the stomach during the endoscopy. However, it was not suitable for endoscopic extraction. Surgery was performed, and the foreign body was removed from the stomach laparoscopically.

The patient was discharged from the hospital uneventfully on the fifth day after surgery.

CONCLUSION: Although they have seemed in many cases, a small percentage of foreign body ingestions needs surgical treatment. Developments in recent years have increased the frequency of using minimally invasive techniques in emergency surgeries. Because of advantages such as fast recovery and small scars, laparoscopic surgery is recommended as an option that can be used safely in emergency cases.