The fact that a knife remained lodged in a man’s chest for eight years without causing serious symptoms is astonishing. Here’s a closer look at his unusual medical case.
According to a case study published in National Library of Medicine on May 31, 2025, a 44-year-old man, described as “otherwise healthy,” sought medical attention after noticing pus leaking from his right nipple. An X-ray revealed a knife lodged in his chest from an attack eight years earlier. Doctors successfully removed the knife, highlighting the importance of imaging and follow-up care.
The medical procedure
The report notes that a right thoracotomy was performed to remove the knife. The patient recovered without complications.
What happened?
This case, involving a Tanzanian man, underscores the critical role of proper medical evaluation and follow-up, especially in areas with limited resources. Access to imaging and ongoing care can be scarce, which may delay diagnosis and treatment.
Doctors shared that, “A 44-year-old male Tanzanian presented to our facility with a 10-day history of pus discharge below the right nipple. He denied any chest pain, difficulty breathing, cough, or fever.”
He recalled that eight years ago, he had been involved in a violent altercation, sustaining multiple cuts to his face, back, chest, and abdomen. “Following the incident, he sought first aid at a primary health facility, where his wounds were sutured; however, no radiological investigation was conducted at that time as hemostasis was achieved. Despite no suspicion of retained foreign body, there were no facilities for imaging. He had an uneventful course over the next eight years until his current presentation.”
Imaging and diagnosis
The case raises awareness about the potential long-term effects of retained foreign objects and the importance of seeking medical attention for injuries—even those that seem minor or appear to heal on their own.
According to the report, “Imaging performed during the current presentation revealed a retained knife blade within the right hemithorax. A right thoracotomy was performed, and the foreign body was successfully removed. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative recovery.”
The study emphasized, “This case highlights the potential for significant delayed complications from untreated penetrating chest trauma, particularly in areas with limited access to surgical care. Improved trauma management protocols, including thorough initial evaluation and follow-up, are essential to prevent such long-term morbidity in resource-constrained settings.”
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition.
