Colonoscopic diagnosis of rectal perforation by foreign body

Abstract

A foreign body in the rectum is not as common as other parts of the body and presents a dilemma for management. Variety of foreign bodies have been found into the rectum such as turnip, stick, tumbler, paper pot, screw driver, live shell, glass bottle, vibrator, door handle, electric bulb, candles, and fruits. Some are introduced for diagnostic or therapeutic purpose like thermometer, enema tubes, disposable enema tips, irrigation catheters. Emergency department procedures include rectal examination, proctoscopy, and abdominal radiography. Although foreign bodies can be removed in the emergency department in about two out of three cases, some still require a laparotomy and a diverting colostomy to remove the object or to treat bowel perforation.

Keywords

• foreign body
• rectal perforation
• trans-anal rectal injuries