ABSTRACT

Pranashta Shalya, or concealed foreign body, is a uniquely detailed concept in Ayurvedic surgery that reflects the depth of clinical observation in ancient times. Described extensively in the Sushruta Samhita, it refers to foreign bodies that are no longer externally visible but remain lodged within deeper tissues or organs, continuing to cause localized or systemic disturbances. Sushruta classified these based on their nature, location, and mobility, and provided systematic guidelines for their identification and removal through the concept of Nirharana Upaya—a series of fifteen therapeutic and surgical methods. This review highlights the diagnostic precision of classical Ayurvedic texts, which emphasized symptom provocation, site-specific signs, and even psychosomatic implications under the concept of Manas Shalya. The surgical approach included both conservative and invasive strategies that remain conceptually aligned with modern trauma and surgical protocols. Today, with the support of diagnostic tools like X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI, the principles of Pranashta Shalya continue to offer valuable guidance in identifying and managing retained or migrated foreign bodies. The relevance of this ancient framework lies in its holistic view of patient care—integrating physical, functional, and psychological domains. In contemporary surgical practice, especially in resource-limited settings, Ayurvedic insights into concealed foreign bodies reinforce the importance of clinical acumen, patient-centred reasoning, and minimally invasive interventions. Pranashta Shalya thus stands as a testament to Ayurveda’s timeless contribution to surgical science. Keywords - Pranashta Shalya, Foreign Body, Sushruta Samhita, Shalya Nirharan.