Laparoscopic treatment of right colic flexure perforation by an ingested wooden toothpick. (2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Casoni Pattacini, Gianmaria; Pecchini, Francesca; Mullineris, Barbara; De Maria, Roberto; Trapani, Vincenzo; Francescato, Alice; Piccoli, Micaela
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery case reports. Volume 77(2020)Supplement
• Page Start: S109
• Page End: S111
• Publication Date: 2020
• Subjects: Wooden toothpick -- Laparoscopic suture -- Foreign bodies; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; Surgery; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2020.09.056
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-2612

Abstract

Highlights: Ingested wooden toothpick. Laparoscopic suture. Sharp foreign bodies. Abstract: Introduction: Ingestion of a toothpick, both accidentally and intentionally, is a rare event. Presentation of case: We present the case of a 42-years old man who was admitted to the emergency department at our Institution presenting with a 5-days history of right sided abdominal pain. Laboratory blood count reported leukocytosis and alteration of principal inflammation index; at the abdominal ultrasound no signs of perforation or collection were described. Discussion: Indication to surgery was posed and an explorative laparoscopy was performed. The presence of local peritonitis at the right colonic flexure secondary to a full thickness bowel perforation caused by a toothpick was found. There was also an acute phlegmonous appendicitis. A laparoscopic appendectomy and a full-thickness double running suture of the perforation were performed. Conclusion: Awareness about dangers of ingested toothpicks needs to be taken and the intestinal track/trace of the toothpick is mandatory until its expulsion.