Introduction

Perforating gastrointestinal foreign bodies with a soft-tissue opacity pose a diagnostic challenge in radiographic studies where it is contraindicated in contrast studies and invisible on noncontrast studies. This report describes a case of pyloric foreign body in a dog with possible gastrointestinal perforations that was suspected on imaging and confirmed through exploratory laparotomy.

An 8-month-old Shih Tzu was found to have ingested a ∼4-inch bamboo stick two days prior to presentation. The dog was found vomiting 4 to 7 times since the incident.

Objective

To project the ingested sharp linear foreign body on radiography without the use of contrast mediums (barium meal, gas), thereby preventing complications from any intestinal perforations and the contrast medium.

Method

Upon presentation, initial radiographs were taken (VD, both laterals), revealing no foreign bodies. The patient was then fasted for 8 hours before repeat radiographs were taken. Exploratory laparotomy and gastrotomy confirmed the diagnosis.

Result

On the left-lateral repeat radiograph, there was a linear soft-tissue opacity contrasted by an intraluminal air along the cranioventral region to the mid abdomen. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a bamboo stick with a sharp end inside the pyloric region of the stomach. No perforations were found. The 4-inch foreign object was removed, and further exploration revealed no other foreign bodies.

Conclusion

Fasting the patient and repeat radiographic studies may be a potential alternative for visualising suspected gastrointestinal foreign bodies, which may be useful for making preoperative diagnosis.