Covert nail injury to the back: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Occupational trauma in carpentry is common in our community due to lack of awareness on occupation safety and poor availability and adherence towards protective equipment. Here is an unusual case of a young carpenter who presented in orthopaedic outpatient department with complaint of difficulty in walking for last 4 days. On examination there was restricted movement of hip joint on extension. On further work up in the form of radiological investigations, a long iron nail was found as incidental finding in the back in close proximity to ascending colon and duodenum in retroperitoneum. Elective laparotomy was performed with removal of nail, patient improved clinically post operatively and his presenting complaints were completely resolved on further follow up. Continuous...