A case report on gossypiboma, an undesired visitor in the abdomen for four years

Gossypiboma (retained surgical sponge) is a rare medical incident that can cause life-threatening complications in patients. It usually presents with nonspecific symptoms, and imaging findings are inconclusive, making diagnosis difficult. In this case report, the patient presented with vague abdominal pain for 4 years. The patient had a history of cesarean section 4 years ago. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the whole abdomen was performed to diagnose the condition. After confirming the diagnosis, a surgical intervention was performed. Prevention is the best approach to reduce the incidence of gossypibomas. The correct count at the end of surgery is always the gold standard, along with a comprehensive examination of the surgical area at the end of the procedure.