Lipiodol remnants misinterpreted as a metal device on postoperative abdominal X-ray images.

We experienced a case of pregnancy after hysterosalpingogram and residual lipiodol in the extraperitoneal space. Initially, we suspected a metallic remnant; however, analysis by mass spectrometer confirmed that it was a remnant of lipiodol.

A 36‐year‐old nulliparous woman with 40 weeks of gestation was admitted to our department due to premature rupture of the membranes. She had no prior surgery. The hysterosalpingogram had been performed with 4 ml of lipiodol approximately 10 months prior to her presentation, and the fallopian tubes were normal. An emergency cesarean section was performed as intrauterine infection was suspected. Routinely performed postoperative abdominal X‐ray showed high‐enhancement shadows (Figure 1). It was confirmed that no gauze and instrument were lost after the surgery. CT images showed high‐density shadows in extraperitoneal along the inguinal canal (Figure 2), suggesting the presence of a metal device. Surgically, the cystic mass was located in the abdominal wall, connected to the inguinal canal, and was removed. The removed object was about 2 cm in diameter with a yellow liquid. The only connective tissue was found pathologically. Mass spectrometry showed the substance was highly consistent with the same lot number of lipiodol used at the previous clinic. There are a few cases of intraperitoneal remnants of lipiodol. , In our case, it was found outside the abdominal cavity. Gynecologists should keep in mind the possibility of contrast agent remnants when examining X‐ray on the patient with a history of hysterosalpingogram.

FIGURE 1

Abdominal X‐ray image showed high‐density shadows

FIGURE 2

Abdominal CT images showed high‐density object with metal artifact outside the abdominal cavity. (A) Transverse plane and (B) sagittal plane

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

The authors declare no conflicts of interest associated with this manuscript.

AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS

CK: managed the patient, collected the data, and wrote the paper. SG: managed the patient and wrote the paper. YY: collected the data and performed the analysis. FC: collected the data and performed the analysis. HI: collected the data and performed the analysis. EK: managed the patient and wrote the report.

CONSENT

Written informed consent was obtained from the patient to publish this report in accordance with the journal's patient consent policy.