The Department of Gastroenterology at Nanjing Gulou Hospital in Nanjing city, Jiangsu province, recently admitted a patient named Zhang. Zhang, from Xi'an city, Shaanxi province, sought treatment for abdominal pain, according to HK01 on 2/3.

Zhang stated that two days before the Tet holiday, he had visited a local clinic for abdominal pain that had lasted for one week. An abdominal CT scan revealed a long, high-density shadow in his intestine. Zhang recounted that about three weeks prior, he had accidentally swallowed a spoon. The object subsequently became lodged in his intestine, causing his pain. Doctors at the local clinic recommended surgery to remove the foreign object; however, the prospect of such an invasive procedure was a psychological barrier for Zhang. Following a friend's recommendation, he decided to fly to Nanjing for further treatment.

X-ray showing foreign objects in the patient's abdomen. Photo: Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Gulou Hospital.

A CT scan at Nanjing Gulou Hospital confirmed the spoon was lodged in his pelvic cavity. Due to the prolonged obstruction caused by the foreign object, the surrounding intestinal lining had developed ulcers, posing a risk of intestinal perforation if not addressed promptly. These foreign objects measured approximately 12 cm in length and were situated in the narrow small intestine, making access and removal challenging. After nearly one hour of manipulation, doctors successfully removed both spoons intact using endoscopic equipment, sparing the patient from invasive surgery. Zhang's health is currently recovering.

Gastroenterologists advise that gastrointestinal foreign bodies are a common clinical emergency, especially when sharp or long objects are lodged, which can cause severe internal organ damage. After accidentally swallowing a foreign object, individuals should never induce vomiting or attempt to push the object down with more food. Instead, they should seek immediate medical attention within 24 hours for diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, individuals should maintain focus while eating. Especially for children, the elderly, and those with swallowing disorders, families must increase care and supervision to prevent risks associated with gastrointestinal foreign bodies.

Doctors using an endoscopic procedure to remove foreign objects from the patient's abdomen. Photo: Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Gulou Hospital.

Binh Minh (According to HK01, 163, Sina)