A Self-Inserted Foreign Body in the Urinary Bladder and Urethra

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) CA), 2021-07, Vol.13 (7)
• Main Authors: Tuncer, Hakan, Karacam, Hatice, Cam, Betul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Emergency Medicine; Radiology; Urology
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16322

Foreign objects in the lower genitourinary system are a rare urological emergency often associated with self-eroticism, drug intoxication, or psychiatric illness. In addition to clinical examination, multiple imaging modalities such as X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging have been used for the diagnosis of foreign bodies. Surgical exploration and endoscopic extraction are the main approaches to the treatment. Here, we present the case of a 37-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with penile and urethral pain caused by an electrical wire inserted into the urethra. The electrical wire was protruding 15 cm from the urethral meatus. A 50 cm long cable was extracted from the urethra and urinary bladder under regional anesthesia. This case is remarkable for the length of the foreign body and the depth to which it was inserted reaching into the urinary bladder. Emergencies related to sexuality or unconventional sexual preferences can lead to avoidance or delay of medical treatment, which, in turn, can result in a higher risk of complications. The examining doctor should be sensitive to secretive and insecure behavior and should be considerate of the patient’s privacy to facilitate a thorough physical examination.