Other complications of foreign body accidentally left in body following surgical operation digital illustration

Other complications of foreign body accidentally left in body following surgical operation Save


ICD-10 code: T81.590

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Other Complications of Foreign Body Accidentally Left in Body Following Surgical Operation

When a foreign object is accidentally left behind in the body after surgery, it can cause a range of complications. While some complications may be immediate, others may not become apparent until years later. Here are some of the other complications you should be aware of:

  1. Infection: When a foreign object is left in the body, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. This can lead to infection, which can be difficult to treat.
  2. Organ Damage: In some cases, a foreign object left in the body can cause damage to nearby organs. For example, a surgical sponge left in the abdomen can cause damage to the intestines or other organs in the area.
  3. Scar Tissue Formation: When the body detects a foreign object, it will often try to encapsulate it by forming scar tissue around it. While this can be helpful in preventing the object from moving around, it can also cause problems if the scar tissue begins to restrict movement or interfere with organ function.
  4. Chronic Pain: Some people who have had a foreign object left in their body report experiencing chronic pain. This can be due to nerve damage, scar tissue, or other factors.
  5. Psychological Effects: In addition to physical complications, having a foreign object left in the body can also have psychological effects. Some people report feeling anxious, depressed, or traumatized by the experience.

If you have had surgery and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor right away. They can help you determine if a foreign object was left in your body and what steps you need to take to address the issue.

Overall, while rare, the accidental leaving of a foreign object in the body can lead to serious complications. It is important for surgeons and medical staff to take every precaution to prevent this from happening, and for patients to be vigilant in monitoring their own health after surgery.