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Insertion and removal of Implanon: practical considerations.
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, Nottingham, UK.
Summary
Implanon, a contraceptive implant, offers effective 3-year contraception. It is significantly faster and safer to insert and remove than Norplant, with fewer complications.
Area of Science:
- Contraception
- Reproductive Health
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Implanon is a novel single-rod contraceptive implant containing etonogestrel.
- It is designed for up to 3 years of highly effective contraception.
- Its design suggests potential advantages over the older Norplant system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the ease and complication rates of Implanon insertion and removal versus Norplant.
- To evaluate the clinical performance of Implanon in a large patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of seven open-label, randomized studies.
- Involved 1,378 women comparing Implanon and Norplant implants.
- Data collected on insertion/removal times and complication frequencies.
Main Results:
- Implanon insertion was approximately four times quicker than Norplant (1.1 min vs. 4.3 min).
- Implanon removal was also significantly faster (2.6 min vs. 10.2 min).
- Implanon had a significantly lower rate of removal complications (0.2% vs. 4.8%; p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Implanon insertion and removal are simpler and quicker than Norplant.
- Implanon offers a superior safety profile regarding removal complications.
- The ease of use may benefit training programs and patient counseling for contraceptive implants.