Simultaneous combined laparoscopic-endoscopic removal of a large gastric trichobezoar and gastric polypectomy

Abstract

Introduction Trichobezoars and gastric polyps are very rare conditions in children and may pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The purpose of this work is to present our successful experience using combined laparoscopic-endoscopic procedure for simultaneous treatment of a trichobezoar and gastric polyp in the same patient.

Case outline We present an unusual case of a 15-year-old girl whose symptoms included abdominal pain, non-bilious vomiting after feeding, including undigested food and sometimes hair. Positive history of trichophagia indicated that a trichobezoar could be the reason for her problems. Endoscopy and ultrasound examination revealed a trichobezoar occupying almost the entire capacity of the stomach, as well as one oval polyp in the prepyloric area of the antrum. Simultaneous combined laparoscopic-endoscopic rendezvous procedure was performed. The trichobezoar (14 × 6 cm) and the gastric polyp (2.2 × 1.7 cm) were completely removed laparoscopically through anterior gastrotomy, with great support of an adequate endobag and mechanical fragmentation of trichobezoar. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusion This case shows that diagnostic endoscopy is valuable and that the combined laparoscopic-endoscopic technique is feasible, safe and recommended treatment for simultaneous removal of a gastric trichobezoar and gastric polypectomy.

Keywords: trichobezoar; gastric polyp; laparoscopy; endoscopy