Delhi hospital doctors extract 39 coins and 37 magnets from patient’s intestines

Doctors at Delhi’s Sir Gangaram Hospital have successfully removed 39 coins and 37 magnets from patient’s intestines of a 26-year-old individual diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient, hailing from Delhi, had ingested the items under the belief that the zinc content in coins would contribute to bodybuilding.

The man, recently discharged after a week of post-surgery recovery, is reported to be in good health, as confirmed by attending physicians. Dr. Tarun Mittal, Senior Consultant in laparoscopic, laser, and general surgery, revealed that the surgery removed coins of Rs 1, 2, and 5 denominations, along with magnets of various shapes like hearts, spheres, stars, bullets, and triangles.

When questioned about his peculiar choice, the patient explained that he believed zinc, present in coins, played a role in bodybuilding. Additionally, he thought the magnet would keep the coins in the intestine, aiding in zinc absorption.

The patient sought medical help after enduring repeated vomiting and abdominal pain for over 20 days, rendering him unable to consume food. His family informed the doctors about his coin and magnet ingestion habits. X-rays of his abdomen revealed shadows resembling coins and magnets, prompting a CT scan that confirmed intestinal blockage.

It was discovered that the magnets and coins had accumulated in two different loops of the small intestine, pulled together by magnetic forces, causing erosion.

“The intestines were opened and the coins and magnets were taken out. Both the loops were rejoined by two different anastomoses,” Dr Mittal said, adding that when the stomach was inspected, huge loads of coins and magnets were found there too. Then the stomach was opened and all the coins were extracted.

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