Surgicel-induced foreign body reaction mimicking local recurrence after right hemicolectomy for colorectal cancer.

Surgicel (oxidised regenerated cellulose) is a commonly used haemostatic agent in various surgical procedures. While it is generally safe and bio-absorbable, it may cause foreign body reactions that mimic malignancy on imaging. This case report presents a woman in her late 70s who underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for a hepatic flexure mucinous carcinoma. During follow-up, imaging revealed a soft tissue nodule in the mesentery highly suspicious for a local metastatic deposit/lymph node recurrence. Subsequent positron emission tomography scan showed no avidity in the area and ensuing biopsy reported presence of foreign body reaction. Thus, this reaction was secondary to the presence of Surgicel placed at the time of initial procedure. This case emphasises the diagnostic challenges posed by foreign body granulomas and highlights the importance of integrating clinical, radiological and histopathological findings to avoid unnecessary interventions.