Iatrogenic Small Intestinal Obstruction

An 83-year-old female, suffering from abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, was admitted to our hospital. Gas-liquid level and tumor was not seen on the abdominal computed tomography scan. Instead, two high density balloon which were 2.7cm(distal) and 3.3cm(proximal) in diameter separately were shown (Figure A) in small intestine. The balloons proved to be part of ileus tube and iohexol which was incorrectly injected into the balloons caused a blockage in the tube. During colonoscopy, we were surprised to find that the distal balloon had passed through the ileocecal valve and we punctured it easily (Figure B). However, affected by the broken distal balloon, we could not reach another one. Finally, we cut off the connector fixed to the face and instructed the patient to take some oral paraffin oil and exercise appropriately. The next day, the balloons were discharged with the symptoms alleviated. It is rare for iatrogenic foreign body to cause ileal obstruction).