Full Breakdown
Chinese Man Lives Eight Years with Chopstick Lodged in Throat
3/19/2026, 10:30:22 AM
Core Event: Surgical Removal of a Long-Lodged Chopstick
A man in China, identified by the surname Wang, recently underwent surgery to remove a 12cm-long metal chopstick that had been lodged in his throat for eight years. The procedure took place at Dalian Municipal Central Hospital in Liaoning province in early March. Wang accidentally swallowed the chopstick while eating and drinking alcohol, initially experiencing pain but no breathing difficulties.
Background & Context: Decision Against Immediate Surgery
Following the incident eight years ago, Wang sought medical advice, where doctors recommended a surgical procedure that involved cutting the side of his neck to retrieve the chopstick. However, he declined this option, opting instead to live with the object, attributing any discomfort to what he considered a normal reaction to alcohol consumption. Over the years, he occasionally felt the chopstick but chose to endure the sensation.
Health Deterioration and Hospital Visit
Recently, Wang experienced increased pain, particularly in the mornings and while swallowing, prompting him to revisit the hospital. Dr. Huang Weipeng, who treated Wang, expressed surprise at the duration of the chopstick's presence, stating, “I thought it happened just now, but he said this was eight years ago.” An examination confirmed the chopstick's location in the soft palate of Wang's throat, with no significant damage to surrounding tissues or organs.
Surgical Procedure and Recovery
Due to Wang's reluctance for invasive surgery, doctors opted for a minimally invasive approach to remove the chopstick through his mouth. The operation was successful, with only minor bleeding reported. Wang recovered well and was discharged from the hospital shortly after the procedure. His story has since gained significant attention online, with many expressing disbelief at his ability to endure such a situation for so long.
Criticism & Opposition: Public Reaction
The incident has sparked a variety of reactions on social media, with users expressing shock and curiosity. Comments ranged from disbelief at the chopstick's length to questions about how Wang managed to swallow it without seeking help sooner. This case has drawn comparisons to other unusual medical stories, such as that of a 64-year-old man in Anhui province who had a toothbrush lodged in his stomach for 52 years, highlighting a pattern of individuals concealing foreign objects due to fear of judgment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He told us a chopstick was trapped in his throat. I thought it happened just now, but he said this was eight years ago,” — Dr. Huang Weipeng, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital
- “12cm long. My God, it is so long. How did he endure it for such a long time?” — Anonymous Internet User
- “I felt pain when simply reading this story,” — Anonymous Internet User
This case underscores the complexities of personal health decisions and the societal pressures that may influence individuals to avoid seeking medical assistance.
