From Oversight to Outcome: Addressing the Challenges of Foreign Body Management in Temporal Soft-Tissue Injuries

Abstract

This case report details the importance of thorough pre-operative assessment and management of soft tissue degloving injuries to prevent complications. A 55-year-old female experienced pain and bleeding in the right temporal region following a road traffic accident. After the initial suturing, she developed increasing pain, swelling, and purulent discharge, prompting a reassessment. Initially diagnosed with a soft tissue injury and no visible foreign bodies, a CT scan later revealed foreign objects in the temporal region as symptoms persisted. Emergency surgery was performed to remove the foreign bodies, followed by antibiotic treatment and regular postoperative follow-ups. The removal of the foreign bodies led to infection resolution and successful wound healing, with follow-up X-rays confirming no residual materials. This case underscores the necessity of thorough initial assessments, wound irrigation, and meticulous examination to detect foreign bodies in facial injuries, emphasizing the role of accurate surgical techniques and timely interventions in achieving optimal outcomes and preventing complications.