Doctors warn: don't try to remove stuck objects alone

Prolonged constriction can cut off blood supply, leading to tissue necrosis

Not related to the article. [AI-generated image]
Not related to the article. [AI-generated image]

A man in his 50s in China required emergency surgery after inserting an empty cola bottle into his genitals and being unable to remove it. He told medical staff he had done it simply out of curiosity.

According to multiple Chinese media outlets, the man, identified only as A, was alone at home on a day off in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, when he inserted an empty cola bottle into his genitals.

At first there were no apparent problems, but within minutes the area became engorged with blood. He was unable to pull the bottle free, and the swelling continued to worsen.

A did not go to the hospital immediately. Overcome by embarrassment, he shut himself in the bathroom and spent about two hours trying to remove the bottle on his own. He tried cooking oil, dish soap and hot water, but his condition only deteriorated.

He ultimately told his family what had happened and went to a hospital in Hangzhou. He reportedly told doctors, "It was purely curiosity — I really wanted to know what would happen."

The attending urologist determined that the condition could lead to necrosis if left untreated and proceeded with surgery.

Medical staff placed a protective barrier between the skin and the plastic bottle, then used specialized equipment to cut the bottle away piece by piece. The operation was successful, and A was discharged two days later.

The hospital advised that when a body part becomes trapped inside a hard object, people should not try to yank it free or apply oil. "Do not try to remove it by force on your own — seek medical attention as quickly as possible," it said.

Citing the case as an example, the hospital stressed that "the most important factor is how quickly the patient reaches a hospital." It warned that while such incidents may initially result in only congestion and swelling, a prolonged delay can disrupt blood supply to the tissue, raising the risk of necrosis and other serious complications.

China Pick
China Pick

jshan@heraldcorp.com