Full Breakdown
Man Lives Eight Years with Metal Chopstick Stuck in Throat
4/18/2026, 2:04:55 AM
Unusual Medical Case in Dalian, China
A 46-year-old man, identified only as Mr. Wang, has gained attention after living for eight years with a metal chopstick lodged in his throat. The incident occurred in 2018 when Wang accidentally swallowed the five-inch utensil during a meal while intoxicated. Initially, he sought medical attention shortly after the incident but opted against surgery due to concerns about the risks associated with cutting open his neck.
Symptoms and Medical Intervention
Wang experienced intermittent throat pain and a sensation of a foreign body for years but deemed the discomfort manageable. However, his condition worsened recently, leading him to seek emergency treatment at the Dalian Municipal Central Hospital in Liaoning Province. Upon examination, doctors discovered the chopstick lodged in his throat through an X-ray, which revealed a 12-centimeter stainless steel object.
Dr. Huang Weipeng, who led the surgical team, noted that Wang had initially dismissed the severity of his condition. “He told us a chopstick was trapped in his throat,” Dr. Huang stated, expressing surprise at the duration of the situation. The medical staff devised a minimally invasive surgical plan to remove the chopstick orally, avoiding the need for a more invasive neck surgery.
Surgical Procedure and Recovery
The surgery was successful, with Dr. Huang carefully extracting the chopstick intact. Following the procedure, Wang's throat discomfort and pain subsided significantly, and he was discharged from the hospital shortly after. The medical team reported that his vocal cords and surrounding mucous membranes were unharmed, allowing for a full recovery.
Public Health Message
The bizarre case has been highlighted by the Dalian Municipal Central Hospital as a cautionary tale. Medical professionals emphasize the importance of seeking immediate help if a foreign object is swallowed or inserted into the body. Prolonged retention of such objects can lead to irritation of surrounding tissues and potentially serious complications.
Criticism & Opposition
While Wang's decision to delay surgery has drawn attention, some medical professionals have criticized the choice to live with the chopstick for so long. They argue that immediate medical intervention could have prevented years of discomfort and potential health risks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He told us a chopstick was trapped in his throat,” — Dr. Huang Weipeng, Surgeon
- “If a foreign object is accidentally swallowed or inserted into the body, seek medical help immediately.” — Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Statement
This unusual case serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with swallowing foreign objects and the importance of timely medical intervention.
