Abstract

Rectal foreign bodies are rare clinical problem in South Korea. Although many foreign bodies can be extracted safely using endoscopic procedures, some patients require surgery. Here we describe the case of a 35-year-old male who presented with a rectosigmoid foreign body, a large carrot measuring 28×7 cm. Sigmoidoscopy revealed a carrot in the upper rectum extending to the sigmoid colon. Endoscopic removal failed. The surgeon unsuccessfully attempted to extract the carrot using various tools without spinal anesthesia. During the extraction attempt, the patient complained of sudden abdominal pain, and a simple x-ray revealed pneumoperitoneum. An emergency colotomy and removal of the foreign body was performed, followed by primary repair of the perforation and a colostomy. Three months later, the colostomy was repaired.

• Keywords: Foreign body, Rectum, Intestinal perforation, Gastrointestinal endoscopy