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A Sewing Needle That Became a Dangerous Mouth Foreign Body

Sharp foreign bodies such as sewing needles can cause serious injury when chewed or swallowed by cats. In this case, diagnostic radiographs identified a metallic needle lodged within the oral–pharyngeal region, with an attached length of thread.

The needle’s sharp point created a risk of penetrating the tongue, pharyngeal tissues, esophagus, or nearby blood vessels. The attached thread also increased concern because linear material may extend farther into the gastrointestinal tract and cause tissue tension, intestinal bunching, obstruction, or perforation.

Radiographic imaging was essential for confirming the foreign body’s presence, determining its orientation, and guiding the safest method of removal. The patient was placed under appropriate anesthesia to allow controlled oral examination and extraction while minimizing movement and additional tissue trauma.

The needle and attached thread were carefully removed in their entirety. The surrounding tissues were then evaluated for puncture wounds, bleeding, contamination, and other evidence of injury. The patient remained stable following the procedure and proceeded to postoperative monitoring and recovery.

This case demonstrates why needles, pins, thread, yarn, and other sewing materials should always be stored securely. Cats may be attracted to moving thread and accidentally ingest the needle attached to it. Suspected ingestion should be treated as an emergency—owners should not pull on any visible thread because the unseen end may be attached to a sharp object or lodged deeper within the digestive tract.

Clinical Presentation: Sharp metallic foreign body lodged in the oral–pharyngeal region
Diagnostic Approach: Orthogonal radiographs for localization and procedural planning
Intervention: Anesthetized oral exploration and controlled removal of the needle and attached thread
Outcome: Foreign material completely extracted; patient stable during recovery

Case handled by Dr. Enrique A. Guioguio.