Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard Episode: Armchair Anonymous: Foreign Object in Butt
Release Date: June 20, 2025

Introduction

In this riveting episode of Armchair Expert, host Dax Shepard delves into the unconventional and often shocking realm of medical emergencies involving foreign objects lodged in patients' bodies. Joined by Monica Padman and medical professionals Kim and Danielle, the conversation navigates through bizarre medical cases, the challenges of removal, and the psychological aspects surrounding these unusual incidents.

First Story: The Barbie Incident

Case Overview

The episode opens with Monica and Dax setting the stage for their first Armchair Anonymous story, cautioning listeners against inserting objects into one's body. Kim, a nurse practitioner with over 15 years in the medical field, recounts a particularly perplexing case involving a patient who presented with severe constipation.

Monica Padman [00:44]: "Wait, we really should say though, don't."

Kim [05:13]: "I got a call to come down to the emergency room. There was a patient there that was constipated... could there be something lodged in there preventing you from going to the bathroom?"

The Revelation

Upon conducting a rectal examination, Kim discovers two perfectly formed Barbie feet inside the patient's rectum.

Kim [06:54]: "These two little beautiful feet are just staring back at us."

The team speculates on how such an object ended up in the patient's system, debating whether it was a deliberate act or an accidental occurrence. The situation escalates to a surgical intervention to safely remove the Barbie without causing further harm.

Monica Padman [09:35]: "She was in power. She was going for the campaign. It was there."

Discussion and Reactions

The group discusses the potential psychological motivations behind such actions, touching on themes of humiliation and the desecration of symbols of power.

Dax Shepard [12:15]: "And the question is, did he pick it because it was close or this premeditated? I'm going to get a President Barbie and humiliate her."

The conversation highlights the complexity of addressing such cases without shaming the individuals involved, emphasizing respect and understanding in medical practice.

Second Story: The Hamster and Butane Can Conundrum

Case Overview

Transitioning to the second story, Danielle, an emergency room physician with over 20 years of experience, shares a harrowing tale of a patient who introduced a can of butane into his rectum.

Danielle [14:45]: "He proceeded to tell me that he did this... couldn't find the hamster... he could feel it moving a little bit and the pressure."

The patient initially attempted to retrieve the object himself, leading to further complications when he tried to reinsert the PVC pipe, inadvertently pushing the butane can deeper.

Medical Challenges

The removal of such a large and combustible object poses significant risks. Danielle details the intricate steps taken to safely extract the butane can, including the use of specialized surgical tools and techniques to prevent any hazardous situations.

Danielle [20:31]: "We use what's called anal dilation... essentially we're medically fisting them."

The procedure required meticulous coordination among the medical team to avoid any explosive incidents due to the nature of butane gas.

Danielle [22:17]: "We considered the other options we have... but she was able to get her whole fist in there."

Discussion and Reactions

The team reflects on the frequency of such cases, acknowledging that while rare, they present unique challenges in emergency medicine. They also touch upon the psychological implications and the importance of non-judgmental care.

Monica Padman [25:16]: "Do you think the first guy's weird?"

Danielle [24:27]: "He didn't hurt anybody. He didn't put anybody else at risk. He was just pushing the edge of the envelope."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with reflections on the unpredictable nature of emergency medicine and the importance of empathy and professionalism when dealing with patients in vulnerable situations.

Dax Shepard [45:58]: "Keep some of the object out of your butt, for crying out loud. Or tie a string to it. Have some contingency plan."

Monica Padman [46:03]: "And everybody watch the pit if you haven't."

Dax Shepard and Monica Padman wrap up the discussion by reiterating the value of understanding and respecting individuals' experiences, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

Key Takeaways

• Medical Complexity: Removing foreign objects from the body requires specialized medical procedures and a high level of expertise.
• Psychological Aspects: Understanding the motivations behind such actions is crucial for providing compassionate care.
• Non-Judgmental Care: Medical professionals must approach each case with empathy, avoiding shaming or stigmatization.
• Emergency Preparedness: Hospitals must be equipped and staffed to handle a wide array of unexpected and challenging medical scenarios.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Monica Padman [00:44]: "Wait, we really should say though, don't."
• Kim [05:13]: "I got a call to come down to the emergency room... something lodged in there preventing you from going to the bathroom?"
• Kim [06:54]: "These two little beautiful feet are just staring back at us."
• Dax Shepard [12:15]: "And the question is, did he pick it because it was close or this premeditated?"
• Danielle [14:45]: "He couldn't find the hamster... he could feel it moving a little bit and the pressure."
• Danielle [20:31]: "We're medically fisting them."
• Dax Shepard [45:58]: "Keep some of the object out of your butt, for crying out loud."

This episode of Armchair Expert offers a compelling exploration of the bizarre yet fascinating cases that medical professionals encounter, highlighting the intersection of physical health, psychology, and human behavior.