Navi Mumbai: Doctors Remove 2-cm Fish Bone Embedded In Stomach Wall, Help Patient Avoid Open Surgery

Navi Mumbai, September 18: A 43-year-old man from Dombivli experienced chest heaviness and upper abdominal discomfort for nearly a month, attributed to a 2-cm fish bone lodged in his stomach wall. The patient, who was on medication for diabetes and hypertension, first noticed symptoms during a work-related trip to Kolkata. Despite undergoing various tests, including an ECG, no significant abnormalities were detected.

His condition worsened over the last 10 days, leading to a consultation with Dr Ronak Tate, a Consultant Gastroenterology at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital.

Upon examination, Dr Tate recommended a detailed gastrointestinal evaluation and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed mild inflammation, a fungal infection in the food pipe, and a 1.5-cm raised area along the stomach's inner curve. A contrast-enhanced CT scan confirmed that the swelling was caused by a sharp fish bone lodged in the stomach wall, piercing the wall and creating a localized pus pocket near the liver.

To remove the foreign body, doctors performed an endoscopic ultrasound to determine the exact location and depth of the abnormality. They then opted for a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure, removing the fish bone and draining the pus. The patient tolerated the procedure well, with no immediate complications. The X-ray after the procedure confirmed no perforation or leakage from the stomach, and his symptoms improved significantly, allowing him to resume a normal diet.

The patient was discharged in stable condition, continuing his regular medication for diabetes, hypertension, and the fungal infection.