A study of type, pattern, and clinical profile of retained musculoskeletal foreign bodies of extremities in a tertiary care hospital of North India

Background: The presence of foreign body in musculoskeletal tissue is a major concern for the patient and treating doctor with regard to its varied presentations and appropriate management. Both metallic and nonmetallic foreign bodies have been studied extensively with special emphasis on its detection by various imaging modalities and unusual presentations of retained foreign ones. An early detection and retrieval is the mainstay of management, leading to an uneventful recovery. It also prevents subsequent complications of neglected, missed, or retained foreign bodies. The increased indulgence in recreational and industrial activities in recent times has increased prevalence and scope of penetrating injuries with various objects. Detailed data regarding patterns and presentations of various foreign body retention of musculoskeletal tissue, both acute and chronic, thus are helpful to format an anticipatory or preventive workup. Furthermore, the knowledge of the types of common foreign bodies in a region helps in drafting investigative and ameliorative public health strategies. Materials and Methods: The current study is a retrospective account of pattern and presentation of non-firearm foreign bodies managed in a tertiary care teaching hospital within a defined period. Besides it, patient characteristics and relevant details of trauma and associated findings were listed with at least 4-month follow-up. Results: Male sex, upper extremity, and left side of body were commonly involved. There was predilection for acral parts such as hand and feet. Agricultural and industrial setup was the common scenario associated with the injuries, and vegetative foreign bodies were mostly found followed by metallic ones among others. Conclusion: The study highlights various aspects of acute or chronic foreign body retention in clinical settings and is helpful to know type, pattern and presentation in a geographical region.