Transabdominal migration of a gossypiboma to the thoracic cavity: A case report

Introduction: Textiloma, or gossypiboma, is a rare oversight in thoracic surgery involving retained surgical sponges, with the potential for serious complications like chronic pain and infection. This case highlights a 29-year-old woman with a transdiaphragmatic migrated gossypiboma following liver surgery.

Case presentation: A-29 years old woman presented with dyspnea, abdominal pain, and fever, with imaging revealing a suspected hepatic abscess. Surgical intervention identified a 15 cm gossypiboma in the thoracic cavity, previously misdiagnosed, leading to successful extraction and recovery.

Discussion: Gossypibomas can cause significant complications, including abscess formation and respiratory distress, especially when migrating through the diaphragm. Diagnosis is challenging, often requiring advanced imaging techniques to identify the retained foreign body.

Conclusion: This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness of gossypiboma in patients with unexplained post-surgical symptoms. Early detection and meticulous surgical practices are crucial to prevent serious complications associated with retained foreign bodies.