A fatal perforation of the distal ileum from an ingested fish bone: A case report

Highlights

• Fish bones are the commonest ingested foreign body which leads to gastrointestinal perforation.

• Distal ileum is a frequent site to be perforated by ingested foreign bodies.

• Such perforations might be associated with negative basic imaging, requiring a high degree of clinical suspicion.

Abstract

Introduction and importance

Foreign body-induced perforations of the ileum are rare consequences among adults.

Presentation of case

This is a case report of a delayed presentation of an ileal perforation and concurrent faecal peritonitis presented as an acute abdomen, resultant from an ingested fishbone, which led to fatality despite urgent laparotomy.

Clinical discussion

Perforations following ingested foreign bodies are frequently unanticipated clinically, and diagnosed during advanced imaging studies or surgical interventions. Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and laparotomy have been used during surgical management in reported cases; however, prior early identification is pivotal for good outcomes as delayed presentations and delayed diagnosis carry a poorer prognosis.

Conclusion

Despite fish bones being frequent foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract and the majority causing no life-threatening adverse effects, they are the leading foreign bodies instigating gastrointestinal perforations. A high degree of suspicion is required when attending to patients with suspected gastrointestinal perforations and absent typical findings in routine imaging, where fish bones could be the aetiology.