Vesical Gossypiboma with Urethral Migration Causing Acute Urinary Retention: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract Introduction: Vesical gossypiboma is a retained surgical sponge in the urinary bladder following abdominal or pelvic surgery. It is probably under-reported due to medico-legal issues. It usually poses a diagnostic challenge to clinicians. A high index of suspicion is essential to make a timely diagnosis. Case Presentation: We present a case of vesical gossypiboma in a 64-year-old male patient who presented with a history of persistent lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and acute urinary retention following trans-vesical prostatectomy. The urinary retention was relieved by a suprapubic cystostomy. On cystoscopic examination, a large whitish spongiform structure in the urethra and bladder was revealed. A gentle attempt of cystoscopic removal was failed. At exploration, a retained surgical sponge was revealed and removed from the bladder. Postoperatively, the patient reported improvement of symptoms and was passing urine normally. Discussion Vesical gossypiboma is relatively rare as very few isolated cases have been reported, and its migration through the urethra is even rarer. Patients with intravesical gossypiboma may manifest with either acute or chronic symptoms due to complications. Gossypiboma is an avoidable condition, and its occurrence can be prevented by thorough exploration of the surgical site and count of surgical materials at the end of the procedure. Conclusion Vesical gossypiboma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with persistent LUTS following open bladder or prostate surgery. Open surgical removal is one of the feasible treatment options. But prevention is a preferable solution.