: In long-term cases, the body may form a granuloma around the sponge, which can eventually calcify. Clinical Significance and Prevention
: Over time, the sponge may appear as a "whirled" or reticular pattern due to the physical structure of the gauze fibers.
The presence of a sponge on a post-operative X-ray is considered a "never event" in healthcare—a serious, preventable medical error. Xray that includes sponges
: These markers allow radiologists to quickly identify the presence and exact location of a sponge within a patient’s body cavity if the manual sponge count is incorrect. Radiographic Appearance
: A "burlap" or "soap-bubble" appearance may occur if gas becomes trapped within the fibers of the sponge, often indicating a secondary infection or abscess formation. : In long-term cases, the body may form
Surgical sponges are not inherently visible on standard X-rays because cotton is radiolucent (transparent to X-rays). To prevent them from being left behind, modern surgical sponges are manufactured with a —usually a thin, blue strip made of barium sulfate.
When a sponge is retained, it often presents with specific features on an X-ray or CT scan: : These markers allow radiologists to quickly identify
: On an X-ray, this marker appears as a distinct, high-density linear or "ribbon-like" shadow.