Rectal foreign bodies.

Rectal foreign bodies present a difficult diagnostic and management dilemma because of delayed presentation, a variety of objects, and a wide spectrum of injuries. An orderly approach to the diagnosis, management, and post-extraction evaluation of the patient with a rectal foreign body is essential. This article outlines and describes the stepwise evaluation and management of the patient with a rectal foreign body. The authors also describe the varied techniques needed to successfully remove the different foreign bodies that may be encountered. Copyright 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.