beijing – A 39-year-old man in china underwent surgery to remove 120 foreign objects from his stomach, according to a report published in the Annals of medicine and Surgery. The patient initially presented at Tangshan Gongren Hospital with a week-long history of abdominal distension and black stools.
Initial blood tests revealed a slightly elevated white blood cell count, but were otherwise normal.X-rays revealed numerous opaque objects within the stomach. Despite exhibiting symptoms of psychosis, no gastrointestinal perforation was detected.
Doctors learned the patient had been diagnosed with schizophrenia eight years prior, but discontinued treatment five years ago at his mother’s request. Following the cessation of medication, he developed a habit of consuming non-food items.
The medical team first stabilized the patient’s mental state over a two-week period before proceeding with surgery. The operation revealed notable gastric dilatation, but no tumors or adhesions. Surgeons successfully removed over 120 items, primarily composed of metal, including keys, nails, iron rods, needles, nail clippers, small knives, and ear spoons.
The patient recovered well post-operatively, receiving antibiotics and being discharged after six days. A follow-up CT scan confirmed complete removal of the foreign objects,and the patient reported a resolution of abdominal pain.
Doctors recommended the patient resume antipsychotic medication and continue with regular evaluations from a mental health professional.