Ultra sonography for the localization of intra-uterine contraceptive devices (i.u.d.'s)
Meyenburg, M.
Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde 38(11): 950-957
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-5751 PMID: 710881 Document Number: 128031
Ultrasound imaging techniques were used to locate IUDs in 585 women. The copper-T was the most frequent IUD studied (512 cases); others included the Lippes loop, copper-7, progesterone-T, Dalkon shield, Grafenberg ring, and Dana super. Imaging studies were also carried out with IUDs submerged in water. Correct positioning of the IUD was seen in 486 cases. In 57 patients the IUD was too close to, or far from, the cervix; and in 24 it was in the cervix (removal was advised in these cases). Imaging was unsuccessful in 18 cases. In 16 of these, IUDs (IUD pieces in 2 cases) were observed in X-ray photographs; the IUD had been lost in the 2 remaining cases. The distance from the fundus uteri to the nearest end of the IUD varied from 1 to 6 cm in correctly positioned cases; it was usually about 2 cm. Ultrasound image appearance of the devices is described and illustrated.