[Analysis of surface deposits on intrauterine contraceptive devices]

The surface deposits on stainless steel contraceptive devices removed from the uterus after various periods of insertion were examined and analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray energy dispersive analysis, Augar electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and atomic absorption spectrophotometer for microquantitative analysis. The data obtained were compared with those of copper-bearing IUDs (TCu 200) obtained by the same methods. The wire coils of stainless steel IUDs which had been in situ for 5 years showed on evident changes but the copper wire coils of the same duration showed varying degrees of erosion. The analysis clearly showed that the wire coils of both types of IUDs were encrusted with deposit. Deposition began on copper-bearing IUDs earlier than on stainless steel IUDs (27 days and 3 months after insertion, respectively). This process began earlier than was reported in other literature. The amount of deposits increased with the time of insertion, but there were great individual variations. Through the above mentioned microanalysis, it was found that the principal composition of the deposition both types of IUDs was calcium and existed in the crystal form of calcium carbonate. The substance attaching to the crystals were very likely nitrogenous organic compounds. Regarding the mechanism of the deposit formation, the authors suggest that it may be similar to that of calculus. The influence of the deposits on the complications of IUD insertion, such as uterine bleeding and unwanted pregnancy, is discussed briefly in this article should be studied for further details.