Indore (Madhya Pradesh): In a rare and delicate medical procedure, doctors at Super Specialty Hospital successfully removed a 7-centimeter-long pin from the stomach of a 17-year-old girl who had accidentally swallowed it. The metallic pin was stuck in the antrum, the lower portion of the stomach, for over seven days, causing severe abdominal pain and repeated vomiting.
The girl was brought to the hospital in critical condition after she experienced extreme discomfort, an inability to eat, and persistent vomiting. Her condition was worsening rapidly when she was examined by gastroenterologist Dr Amit Agrawal. An immediate X-ray revealed the presence of an elongated foreign object, later confirmed to be a sharp pin measuring between 5 to 7 cm in length.
Dr Agrawal explained that the pin’s head was barely visible, and its location in the antrum made removal especially challenging. “It was a complex case due to the risk of internal injury during extraction. The pin could have pierced the stomach lining or esophagus if not handled precisely,” he said.
A minimally invasive endoscopic procedure was performed, lasting approximately 90 minutes. Using specialised instruments and extreme caution, the surgical team managed to extract the pin without causing any damage to the surrounding tissues.
Post-operation, the patient’s condition stabilised. She has begun a liquid diet and is expected to be discharged within the next two days.
Dr Agrawal termed the case as highly unusual. “We often deal with swallowed coins or batteries, mostly stuck in the oesophagus or upper stomach. But a pin lodged in the antrum for such a duration is extremely rare and potentially dangerous,” he said.
