An eight-year asymptomatic retention of a knife blade in the chest: a case report

Abstract

Retained foreign bodies in the thoracic cavity following penetrating trauma are rare and typically identified shortly after injury. However, prolonged asymptomatic retention is possible, posing diagnostic challenges especially in resource limited settings. A 44-year-old male, otherwise healthy, presented with a right chest wall sinus discharging pus, 8 years after sustaining multiple stab wounds treated with primary first aid only. Imaging performed during the current presentation revealed a retained knife blade within the right hemithorax. A right thoracotomy was performed, and the foreign body was successfully removed. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative recovery. This case underscores the potential for significant delayed complications from untreated penetrating chest trauma, particularly in settings with limited access to definitive surgical care. Improved trauma management protocols, including enhanced initial evaluation and follow-up, are essential to prevent such long-term morbidity in resource-constrained environments.