Removal of foreign bodies from the distal gastrointestinal tract: conventional techniques and novel solutions. Case series

Objective. To evaluate the pattern of injury, diagnostic features, extraction techniques, and treatment outcomes in patients with foreign bodies of the distal gastrointestinal tract in order to optimize the diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. Material and methods. A retrospective analysis of medical records of 42 patients with foreign bodies of the distal gastrointestinal tract treated between January 2024 and January 2025 was performed. In all cases, the foreign bodies were solitary. The type of foreign body, extraction method, need for surgical intervention, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Results. The foreign bodies varied in composition and mechanism of traumatic impact, with household objects predominating. Transanal removal of the foreign body was successfully performed in 88.1% of cases using various techniques, including digital rectal extraction, standard and modified surgical instruments, a proprietary extraction device, and endoscopic equipment. Laparotomy was required in 11.9% of cases; colostomy was performed in two patients. One death (2.4%) was recorded. Based on clinical experience, a rational diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for managing this patient population was developed. Conclusions. Foreign bodies of the distal gastrointestinal tract represent a clinically significant condition. The use of minimally invasive transanal techniques allows laparotomy to be avoided in the majority of cases.