Late Migration of a Foreign Body in the Foot 5 Years After Initial Trauma

Abstract

An 11-year-old boy presented to our emergency department because of the extrusion of a small piece of glass through the plantar skin, 5 years after the initial trauma. Another foreign body was identified on ultrasounds and removed surgically. Ultrasound is an accurate test for detection of foreign bodies and to assess potential complications. The treatment of all foreign bodies is surgical exploration and removal, except if the risks of attempting removal are higher than the potential damage of the foreign body in its existing location. Migrations of foreign bodies are not uncommon. Ultrasounds could help for localization and removal as an intraoperative procedure. In case of suspicion of a foreign body after trauma, complementary examinations are required.