Retained surgical sponge in the body following surgery though not as common in the present times as in the pre laparoscopic era , when laparotomies were routinely done for abdominal pathology is still a much feared entity mainly from the surgeons point of view as it is a sure shot way to infamy legal tangles and financial troubles if discovered in unfavourable circumstances. What we have endeavoured to find out in our study of five gossypiboma cases which we have encountered in past 12 years and

review of past cases published on this subject is – does the operating surgeon has any control over the unfolding events post inadvertent retention of the foreign body .

DISCOVERIES

One patient had a gauge piece tucked away behind the strap muscles , two patients were found with intraluminal migration of surgical sponge – one complete (tightly coiled) . One incomplete( into jejunum and ileum). Two were discovered with sponge encapsulated between dense intestinal and bladder adhesion , one in the process of dissolution and another completely dissolved into abscess cavity without any bowel injury.

CONCLUSION

 Heed patients complaints and have a high degree of suspicion when dealing with post  op patients even when they complain of vague symptoms.These and quite a little bit of luck is required in surgical practise to help the surgeon stay clear of dangerous situations