Gastropleurobronchial fistula: lessons learned from delayed diagnosis of retained surgical sponge after abdominal surgery—A case report and review of the literature

Gossypibomas should be considered as a potential differential diagnosis in patients presenting with thoracoabdominal soft tissue masses and having a history of prior surgery. This is especially relevant in cases involving gynecological or emergency surgeries, female sex, or individuals with a high body mass index. A detailed medical history and appropriate imaging are essential for timely diagnosis.