Gastrointestinal Bezoars in Pediatrics: Case Series and Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose:To present data, management and outcome of cases with trichobezoars in our institute for whom surgery was done. Methods: We documented a retrospective review of trichobezoars done in our hospital between 2016 and 2022. All demographic data collected included gender and age of cases, composition and extent of bezoar, clinical presentation, imaging modalities, endoscopic trial, surgical approach and outcome. Results: Five cases of gastrointestinal trichobezoars underwent surgery. All cases were females between (13 & 16 years). Trichobezoars were three gasric, one ileal and one of combined gastric and colonic. Complaints were abdominal pain, vomiting, weight loss, and halitosis. Three cases had a palpable abdominal mass. Different Radiological modalities were performed. Endoscopic retrieval was tried in one patient and the laparoscopic approach in another one, but the first route failed. Laparotomy followed by gastrotomy, enterotomy and colotomy were done without complications. Conclusions: Trichobezoars should be suspected in any child with unexplained abdominal complaints, or with a palpable abdominal mass, especially in girls. Imaging can be done in different modalities for diagnosis. Endoscopic retrieval could be tried; however its failure is common, necessitating laparotomy, which has an excellent outcome.