Three cases are reported in which the lateral arm of the intra-uterine contraceptive device had broken off. The fragmentation of the intrauterine contraceptive device was observed during spontaneous expulsion and during extraction. The broken off portions of the intra-uterine devices were not located by sonography, radiography or computer tomography. In two of three cases the diagnosis was not made by hysteroscopy. In one case the remaining parts of the intra-uterine device were removed by curettage. The problems from partial perforation and embedding of the fragments are discussed and the management described. A hysteroscopic diagnosis and extraction the fragments is recommended.
PIP: 3 cases are reported in which the lateral arm of the IUD had broken off. The fragmentation of the IUD was observed during spontaneous expulsion and during extraction. The broken-off portions of the IUD were not located by sonography, radiography, or computer tomography. In 2 of 3 cases, the diagnosis was not made by hysteroscopy. In 1 case, the remaining parts of the IUD were removed by curettage. Problems from the partial perforation and embedding of fragments are discussed and the management of such cases is described. A hysteroscopic diagnosis and extraction of the fragments is recommended. (author's modified)