Vacuum-assisted foetal delivery device to remove a rectal foreign body – A novel application of the Ventouse method

Abstract

Rectal foreign bodies (RFBs) are an unusual emergency presentation readily confi rmed via clinical examination and imaging, which must be quickly removed due to the risk of rectal wall tissue damage leading to perforation and subsequent peritonitis. Several non-operative methods are described in the literature to retrieve RFBs, however removal can be especially diffi cult if they not easily graspable, for example a ball-like object. We present the case of a spherical RFB successfully extracted using a vacuumassisted delivery device.

Caring for a patient with a rectal foreign body

“…11 Use of an obstetrical vacuum device to provide suction may remove the foreign body. 1 Following removal of the RFB, a sigmoidoscopy is typically performed to assess the anorectal mucosa for injury. 1 Postprocedure, an erect chest X-ray should be performed to observe for free air.…”

“…1 Following removal of the RFB, a sigmoidoscopy is typically performed to assess the anorectal mucosa for injury. 1 Postprocedure, an erect chest X-ray should be performed to observe for free air. 12 For an erect chest X-ray, the patient should sit up for 10 minutes prior to allow any free air to settle in the subdiaphragmatic space.…”

“…The catheter is inserted around or into the RFB, then the balloon is inflated and the object is pulled down toward the anus 11. Use of an obstetrical vacuum device to provide suction may remove the foreign body 1. Following removal of the RFB, a sigmoidoscopy is typically performed to assess the anorectal mucosa for injury 1.…”

“…Teach patients the signs and symptoms of possible complications and what to do should they occur. For patients with signs of sepsis or peritonitis, administer antibiotics as prescribed 1. All patients diagnosed with an RFB should be offered the opportunity for psychological support before being discharged.…”

“…Sophia Parsh, BSN, RN, Hyun Ah “Esther” Oh, BSN, RN, and Bridget Parsh, EdD, CNS, RN, CPN respond— While the causes for RFBs vary, common circumstances include sexual gratification, anal eroticism, accidental insertion, assault, “body packing” for concealing objects (such as drugs or weapons), and treatments for hemorrhoids and constipation 1. Examples of RFBs include phallic-shaped items, lids, containers, jars, and toothbrushes 2…”