Intra-Abdominal Gossypiboma: An Unusual Cause of Intestinal Obstruction

Abstract

Background: Retained foreign object (RFO) of which gossypiboma is one of them have been identified as a rare cause of intestinal obstruction but the incidence is rising with increasing number of surgeries. Gossypiboma is a general term used for surgical materials made of cotton which may vary from a small piece of gauze to a large abdominal mop or towel. Gossypiboma is an uncommon surgical embarrassment which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality as well as litigation against the Surgeon or hospital. This study presents two concurrent cases of intestinal obstruction secondary to gossypiboma presenting in our centre within a space of a week from surgeries done in 2 different private hospitals several years ago. A high index of suspicion is needed to make the diagnosis and all efforts should be geared towards its prevention.

Keywords: Retained foreign body, Morbidity, Litigation, Acute abdomen, Gauzeoma