Citation

Thomas J, Maheshwari S, Sallam A. Cureus 2021; 13(11): e19697.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Curēus)

DOI

10.7759/cureus.19697

PMID

34976476

PMCID

PMC8681881

Abstract

Foreign body insertion in the rectum is not a very common presentation in the emergency department but this is common among individuals with a history of self-harm, personality disorders, and other psychosomatic illnesses. It is often diagnosed on abdominal x-rays; however, a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis may be warranted when perforation is suspected. To diagnose an anorectal foreign body, clinicians must maintain a high level of suspicion. Because of embarrassment or maybe psychological concerns, the patient may not be ready to share all the information. Healthcare providers must hence show empathy and compassion while being calm and non-judgmental. Here, we present a case of an 80-year-old male who underwent a laparotomy for removal of a large foreign body that was inserted in the rectum and caused a gastrointestinal perforation.

Language: en

Keywords

psychiatry; pneumoperitoneum; foreign body insertion; pestle; rectal polyembolokoilamania