When Nature Strikes Back: Understanding Intestinal Perforations Caused by Vegetable and Animal Bodies

Abstract

Foreign body intestinal perforation is a critical and potentially life-threatening condition that presents significant diagnostic challenges, especially in rural populations who are often distant from healthcare facilities and lack access to necessary resources. In these settings, the surgical approach is further complicated by prolonged diagnostic times and delayed access to appropriate care. This article presents a series of cases involving patients with foreign body intestinal perforation of both vegetable and animal origin. Among these cases, one patient died due to delayed voluntary treatment, and another presented without leukocytosis, further complicating the diagnosis. Socioeconomic barriers made follow-up challenging in most cases, negatively impacting patient outcomes. This study details patient characteristics, surgical approaches, and outcomes. Community education, improved infrastructure, and greater awareness among healthcare providers are essential to improving outcomes, particularly in rural areas where healthcare delivery is more challenging and intensified efforts are required to enhance patient care and quality of life.