# Two rare cases of gastric perforation caused by ingested metal bristle: the risk of barbecuing

## TL;DR

Two people suffered stomach injuries from eating metal bristles while barbecuing, highlighting the hidden dangers of grill brushes.

## Contribution

Highlights a rare but serious risk of gastric perforation from ingested metal bristles during barbecuing.

## Key findings

- Two cases of gastric perforation caused by ingested metal bristles from grill brushes were reported.
- Diagnostic laparoscopy and surgical repair were required to treat the injuries.
- Metal bristles can detach from grill brushes and cause severe gastrointestinal complications.

## Abstract

Gastric perforation due to ingested foreign bodies is rare and often diagnostically challenging. We present two cases of patients presenting with acute abdominal pain after barbecuing in 2024. Both showed gastric perforation due to metal bristle ingestion from grill brushes attached to the food. Consecutively, diagnostic laparoscopy and recovery of the foreign body and gastric perforation repair with sutures were performed. These cases underscore the importance of imaging for operative planning, diagnostic persistence, and awareness of concealed gastric perforation due to foreign body ingestion. Utensils used for food preparation should be considered in differential diagnosis for bowel perforation and liver abscesses. Thin metal wires can detach, be ingested, and cause gastrointestinal complications.