Pune: Doctors at Manipal Hospital, Baner, successfully removed a swallowed nail from an 18-year-old carpenter without resorting to surgery. The incident occurred when the teenager accidentally ingested the sharp object while working.
The patient arrived at the hospital two hours after swallowing the nail, complaining of pain. An immediate X-ray confirmed the nail was lodged at the junction of the small intestine, posing a serious risk of internal injury. Recognizing the urgency, a team led by Dr. Prasad Bhate, Head of Gastroenterology, performed an emergency endoscopy.
“Sharp objects, if ingested, can lead to severe complications such as internal bleeding, perforation, or infections. In this case, timely intervention and advanced endoscopic techniques allowed us to remove the nail safely without surgery,” said Dr. Bhate.
Using endoscopy, doctors located and gently removed the nail, preventing potential damage to the patient’s internal organs. The absence of food in the patient’s stomach made the procedure easier and more precise.
Following the procedure, the patient was monitored and discharged the same day. A follow-up X-ray confirmed no complications or internal damage, ensuring a complete recovery.
Anand Mote, Cluster Director at Manipal Hospital, Baner, highlighted the importance of timely care: “This case underscores the value of expert intervention and advanced medical techniques. Removing a sharp object without surgery demonstrates our commitment to patient safety and effective treatment. We remain dedicated to serving Pune and neighboring regions with innovative healthcare solutions.”
