IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Retained metallic surgical suture

Case contributed by Bruno Di Muzio
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Maxillofacial surgeon came to discuss a post-operative radiograph.

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Male

Facial bones radiographs

x-ray

Radiopaque lines projected on the right jaw.

CT Facial bones

ct

Radiopaque lines adjacent to the right jaw. 

Case Discussion

This case was interpreted as a foreign body in a surgical bed, likely gauze. After surgical intervention, it was found to be a metallic surgical suture.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.