BACKGROUND: Retained surgical items (RSIs) constitute a rare complication arising after surgical procedures. Their occurrence may be averted through diligent precautionary measures. Perioperative counting of equipment and materials is the most common method of screening for RSIs. Subsequent confirmation of the diagnosis can be achieved through clinical examination and imaging studies.

CASE: We report a case of successful hysteroscopic identification and retrieval of gauze inadvertently left within the uterine cavity, after a cesarean section two years back. The patient was later diagnosed with RSIs during routine evaluation for secondary subfertility and vaginal discharge.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite the relatively low incidence of RSIs, they represent a significant and preventable source of patient harm, carrying the potential for fatal outcomes and resulting in substantial medical and legal expenditures.

KEYWORDS: Gossypiboma, Retained Surgical Items, Uterus