title: The retained surgical sponge following intra-abdominal surgery. A continuing problem.
abstract: The surgical sponge retained following intra-abdominal surgery is a continuing problem. Despite precautions, the incidence of this problem is grossly underestimated. During the past 10 years, we have treated four patients with this problem. The presentation of a retained surgical sponge is highly variable, as is the time before the onset of symptoms. The clinical presentation, predisposing factors, and management are presented as well as guidelines for prevention.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Tucson 85724.
authors.forename: W
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Rappaport
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Haynes
mesh_terms: D000005:Abdomen / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D011859:Radiography; D015503:Surgical Sponges / Q000009:adverse effects*