Breast Cancer: Current Research
Open Access

Abstract

Introduction: Textiloma is a mass composed of retained surgical textile foreign body. It is a rare iatrogenic complication. The most common cases occur after abdominal or thoracic surgery but rarely after breast surgery. It is a frequently injurious situation that can lead to medico-legal implications. It is considered to be a sample of medical negligence that involves the surgeon responsibility. It is a preventable condition and it can be avoidable by maintaining standard recommendations. Case Report: A 47-year-old lady, without past medical history, was diagnosed with a breast infiltring intraductal carcinoma. She was treated with mastectomy and adjuvant chemo radiotherapies. Four years later, the patient consulted her surgeon for a subcutaneous mass in the operative site. The physical examination found a palpable hard painless mass near the surgical scar. Ultrasonography showed a heterogenous mass. Both medical and radiological investigations concluded to recurrent tumor. The patient has undergone surgery. Macroscopic exploration revealed an adherent whitish mass, measuring 5x5 cm with sclerotic consistency. The section showed a sponge. The histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of textiloma and noted granulomatous inflammation with multinucleated foreign body type of giant cell infiltration around textile fibers. Conclusion: The medico-legal implications of textiloma are high and significant. In fact, the doctor can be made liable in civil law for paying compensation and in criminal law if the degree of negligence is so gross. However, in spite of continual improvement in surgical procedures and the technical evolution aimed at protecting patients in the operating room, textiloma is unlikely to be completely eliminated.

Biography

Mohamed Amin Mesrati is a Forensic Doctor and an Associate Professor, graduated from Faculty of Medicine of Monastir (Tunisa). He is devoting his life in defending people rights and improving the health system. He is dividing his time between teaching, researches, performing autopsies and examining victims of violence.

Email: mesrati.amin@gmail.com