An unusual place to find a lost needle in laparoscopic surgery

Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2014 Sep;96(6):e6-7. doi: 10.1308/003588414X13946184902127.

Abstract

Losing a needle during laparoscopic surgery is an uncommon but potentially challenging scenario for the surgeon. The prolonged operative time to search for a small retained foreign body such as a needle can cause clinical and medicolegal complications. As a result, it is considered a 'never event'. This report describes a case of a lost needle during a laparoscopic prostatectomy, when a meticulous and systematic search for the foreign body was initiated and completed with the use of x-rays, only to find it in an unusual place.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Foreign Bodies / diagnosis*
  • Foreign Bodies / etiology
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy / adverse effects
  • Laparoscopy / instrumentation*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Needles*
  • Prostatectomy / adverse effects
  • Prostatectomy / instrumentation*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / surgery
  • Suture Techniques / instrumentation