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Small bowel obstruction and perforation after Essure sterilization: a case report
Hendrik T J Mantel1, Jacobus Wijma, Adrianus P M Stael
1Department of Surgery, Martini Hospital Groningen, 9728 NT Groningen, The Netherlands.
Contraception
|September 15, 2012
Summary
A rare complication of Essure sterilization occurred when a device migrated, causing small bowel obstruction and perforation. Surgical intervention, including ileocecal resection, was necessary to treat this serious Essure complication.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Essure is a permanent birth control device placed in the fallopian tubes.
- While generally safe, rare complications can occur, necessitating prompt diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old woman experienced nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension one month post-Essure sterilization.
- Imaging revealed small bowel obstruction, and surgery identified a migrated Essure device strangulating and perforating the terminal ileum.
Findings:
- The Essure microinsert had migrated from its intended location and caused mechanical small bowel obstruction.
- The device's aberrant position near the ileocecal junction led to bowel strangulation and perforation, requiring ileocecal resection and ileocolostomy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for serious gastrointestinal complications from Essure device migration.
- Abdominal X-rays are crucial for evaluating patients with post-sterilization abdominal symptoms, focusing on device placement to prevent complications.
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