Removal of a foreign body in the rectosigmoid using a tonsil snare.

Abstract

Foreign bodies are introduced through the anus, either through impalement or from a therapeutic mishap.¹Among the latter are such items as anal dilators, enema tips, and thermometers. Among the former, a cursory check of the literature during the past several years reveals a bizarre group, ranging from vegetables, such as cucumbers and onions, to such solid objects as flashlights, light bulbs, spectacles, and even an umbrella handle!⁴By far the commonest objects introduced were made of glass, and these ranged from glass tumblers to various types of bottles.^1-9 In general the objects introduced by impalement are either introduced maliciously, usually during a drinking bout as a practical joke, or self-inserted for autoerotic gratification, which apparently results from pressure over the prostate and seminal vesicles. Occasionally the objects may be introduced for such reasons as constipation, itching piles, etc. Many methods of treatment have been advised, and