Doctors in shock after discovering 41 rubber bands in woman's abdomen during operation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a bizarre and rare medical case, doctors at Saraswathy Hospital in Parassala were left stunned after they surgically removed 41 rubber bands from the small intestine of a 40-year-old woman who arrived with severe abdominal pain and persistent vomiting.

The woman had been experiencing stomach pain and bloating for four days before seeking medical attention. A scan revealed a severe blockage in her small intestine, prompting an emergency surgery. During the procedure, surgeons discovered a tightly packed mass of rubber bands obstructing the intestinal passage. Each band was meticulously removed before the intestine was sutured. The patient is reported to be recovering well.

Family members disclosed that the woman, employed at a private firm, had a long-standing habit of chewing on rubber bands — a behavioural quirk dating back to before her marriage.

Dr. S.K. Ajaykumar, the hospital’s chief, noted that while it is not uncommon to find non-edible items like hair or plastic in the digestive tracts of some individuals, the presence of so many rubber bands is exceptionally rare. He warned that, if untreated, the obstruction could have led to intestinal rupture, posing a serious threat to her life.