Foreign Body in Rectum: A Rare Case Report

Rectal foreign body is a rare clinical entity. Approach includes a careful history and examination to rule out peritonitis and removal by conservative or operative approach. Most commonly bottles and glasses found. Other objects include toothbrushes, deodorant bottles, food articles, knives, cell phones, flash lights, ornaments, etc. Reasons for insertion include autoeroticism, concealment, attention seeking behaviour, accidental, assault and to alleviate constipation.

Case Report: A 41 years old male came to emergency with complaint of pain per rectum from a bottle he had inserted in his rectum 10 hours prior to presentation. Multiple attempts to remove it at home failed. On examination abdomen was soft, non-tender, non-distended. An abdomen xray showed a large bottle shaped object in pelvis. The foreign body was palpable in the rectum but due to it’s shape, size and smooth surface it was impossible to retrieve it with simple manoeuvring even with simultaneous suprapubic pressure. All relevant investigations were done and patient was prepared for surgery. Exploratory laparotomy was done under spinal anaesthesia. Lower midline incision was given and bottle was pushed from above and taken out of anal canal. A glass bottle of size 11*5 cm was retrieved. Antibiotics and painkillers started. Patient recovered well and discharged on post op day 2.

Conclusion: Management of patients with rectal foreign bodies can be challenging. Even though the majority of cases can be successfully managed conservatively, the operative techniques might also be needed.