The patient, a 38-year-old man with a physical disability, was brought to a leading Pune hospital after experiencing severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and persistent vomiting. His family reported that he had accidentally swallowed several mutton bones while eating, a situation made more precarious by his inability to communicate discomfort effectively due to his disability.
On examination, doctors suspected a foreign body obstruction in the esophagus-a potentially life-threatening emergency that can lead to perforation, infection, or even death if not treated promptly.
A series of diagnostic tests, including X-rays and an endoscopic examination, confirmed the presence of not one, but six sharp mutton bones stuck at various points in the food pipe. The bones posed a significant risk of puncturing the esophageal wall, leading to internal bleeding or severe infection.
The case was further complicated by the patient’s underlying health conditions and his inability to cooperate fully with standard medical procedures. The surgical team, led by experienced gastroenterologists and anesthetists, had to plan meticulously to minimize risks and ensure a safe outcome.
The doctors opted for an endoscopic removal-a minimally invasive procedure using a flexible tube equipped with a camera and special instruments. Over the course of a carefully orchestrated surgery lasting more than an hour, the team skillfully extracted all six bones without causing any injury to the delicate tissues of the esophagus.
Throughout the procedure, the patient was closely monitored for signs of distress or complications. The team’s expertise and coordination were crucial in navigating the challenges posed by multiple sharp foreign bodies and the patient’s disability.
Post-surgery, the patient was kept under observation in the intensive care unit. Thanks to the swift intervention and expert care, he made a steady recovery, regaining the ability to swallow and eat normally within days. The family expressed immense gratitude to the hospital staff for their dedication and compassion.
Doctors emphasized the importance of early medical attention in such cases, noting that delays could have resulted in far more serious complications.
The successful outcome has drawn praise from the medical community, with experts noting that such complex foreign body removals are rarely reported in India. The case underscores Pune’s growing reputation as a center for advanced medical care and emergency response.
