Breast Textiloma: An unending medico-legal issue about a case report. (2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boussaid, Marwa; Mesrati, Med Amin; Jouirou, Rania; Abdejlil, Nouha; Zakhama, Abdelfeteh; Chadly, Ali; Aissaoui, Abir
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery case reports. Volume 34(2017)
• Page Start: 17
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2017
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; Surgery; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2017.03.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-2612

Abstract

Highlights: Forgetting sponges in the breast after surgery is uncommon and may mimic a recurrent tumor after years. Medico-legal implications are heavy which jeopardize the reputation of the surgeon. The patient was not informed about the real diagnosis because of fear of litigation. Abstract: Introduction: Textiloma is a mass composed of retained surgical textile foreign body. It is a rare iatrogenic complication that can engage the doctor's responsibility. The aim of this manuscript is to report an unusual case of breast Textiloma mimicking a recurrent tumor and to highlight its medico-legal implications. Presentation of case: A 47-year-old lady, without past medical history, was diagnosed with a breast infiltring intraductal carcinoma. She was treated with mastectomy. Four years later, the patient consulted her surgeon for a subcutaneous mass in the operative site. Both medical and radiological investigations concluded to recurrent tumor. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of Textiloma. Discussion: Retained foreign bodies in the operative site are infrequent but serious iatrogenic complications. Clinical manifestations of Textiloma are variable and non-specific. It should be suspected in any postoperative case with unresolved or unusual problems. It can mimic other conditions such as tumor. Textiloma is a frequently injurious situation that can lead to medico-legal implications. It is considered to be a sample of medical negligence that involves the surgeon responsibility. Conclusion: Textiloma is a preventable condition and it can be avoidable by maintaining standard recommendations.