Management of Retained Rectal Foreign Bodies: Case Series

Abstract

Background. The purpose of this study was to review the experience with retained colorectal foreign bodies at our hospital.Material and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records with a diagnosis of ICD9 code 937 at the emergency department of the Tri-service General Hospital from July 1990 through April 2010. Collected data, including patient demographics, extraction method, anesthesia method, and treatment, were analyzed.Results. Retained colorectal foreign bodies were observed in 19 patients, including 14 males and 5 females. Among the foreign bodies extracted, vibrators were the most common object encountered. A large number of our patients refused to explain why the foreign body had been inserted into the rectum. In most patients, the foreign body was removed manually by topical anesthesia. Most patients were discharged without requiring hospital admission.Conclusion. The technique for the safe extraction of a rectal foreign body usually depends on the size, shape, and contours of the foreign body. Prompt appropriate treatment by manual extraction, colonoscopy, or even surgery improves prognosis and prevents further complications.