Woman in Lviv Discovered Gallstone Left Inside Her for 19 Years After Surgery

Natalia's Medical Ordeal in Lviv

According to Главком: A 47-year-old Lviv resident named Natalia sought medical help due to a purulent inflammation on her abdomen. During examination, doctors found a 15 mm gallstone that had been left in her body after her gallbladder was removed 19 years earlier, in 2007. She reported severe suppuration, but unlike typical symptoms such as pain and fever, her lab results were normal.

Initially, physicians diagnosed phlegmon-an acute purulent inflammation of tissues with swelling. During surgery, they drained the pus, but the wound kept reopening. 'At first, it looked like phlegmon-acute purulent inflammation with severe swelling. However, there was no pain or fever, which is usually typical, and tests were normal,' the medical team noted. Reviewing her medical history revealed that Natalia had her gallbladder removed 19 years ago, and the retained stone was causing the purulent process, inflammation, and a fistula.

Surgery and Outcome

In a follow-up operation, surgeons successfully located and removed the stone. 'The cause turned out to be unexpected-a small 15 mm gallstone had remained in the body all this time. Years later, it triggered the purulent process, inflammation, and fistula,' the hospital reported. The day after surgery, Natalia was able to walk and eat, and she returned home three days later. 'Now ahead is a life without discomfort and constant complications,' the hospital added.

This case highlights the critical need for careful patient monitoring after surgical procedures, as retained foreign objects can lead to serious complications many years later. Doctors urge patients to seek medical attention for any unusual symptoms, even if they lack typical disease indicators. Natalia's experience serves as a lesson for others who have undergone similar operations about the importance of closely tracking their health and responding promptly to bodily changes.