What is gossipiboma?

Gossypiboma is a medical term that refers to a mass or lump that develops due to the accidental retention of a surgical sponge or gauze inside the patient's body post-surgery. The term 'gossypiboma' is derived from the word 'gossypium,' which means cotton, and 'boma,' which means a mass or lump in Swahili. Gossypiboma can cause severe complications such as inflammation, infection, pain, and even death in some cases if left untreated. It is a preventable medical error, and surgical teams must follow strict protocols to avoid retaining surgical materials inside the patient's body. Early diagnosis and removal of the sponge or gauze are critical for successful treatment.