Carpenter Swallows Nail: Safely Treated Without Surgery at Manipal Hospital, Pune

Pune: An 18-year-old carpenter from Pune narrowly avoided a potentially fatal incident when he accidentally swallowed a sharp nail while working. He was rushed to Manipal Hospital, Baner, with severe abdominal pain.

Upon examination, an X-ray revealed the nail lodged in the upper part of his intestine, posing a serious risk of internal injury.

Dr. Prasad Bhate, HOD and Senior Consultant – Gastroenterology at Manipal Hospital, led the medical team in performing an emergency endoscopic procedure.

He stated, "Ingesting foreign bodies, especially sharp objects, can lead to severe internal damage, including internal bleeding, perforation, and life-threatening infections. In this case, the patient ingested a sharp nail that, if not removed immediately, could have resulted in serious complications or even fatal consequences. Fortunately, we were able to remove the nail safely using advanced endoscopic techniques, which avoided the need for surgery and reduced recovery time."

The patient, who had not eaten anything before arriving at the hospital, was treated promptly, making the procedure easier to perform. The nail was located at the junction of the small intestine, which made its swift removal essential to avoid further damage. Thanks to the quick action of the medical team, the sharp object was removed without any surgical intervention.

Mr. Anand Mote, Cluster Director at Manipal Hospital, Baner, highlighted the significance of timely medical care. "This incident reinforces the importance of early intervention and expert care in preventing life-threatening situations. At Manipal Hospital, Baner, we are fully equipped to handle complex emergencies like these. Our ability to remove a sharp object like this without surgery demonstrates the high level of expertise available to patients in Pune and surrounding areas."

Following the procedure, the patient was closely monitored and discharged on the same day. A follow-up X-ray confirmed that there were no internal complications, and the patient is currently in good health.