Analysis of 100 cases of missing IUD strings

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Gynecology

Background:

• Missing intrauterine device (IUD) strings present a clinical challenge.
• Accurate localization and management are crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the location of IUDs in patients presenting with missing strings.
• To inform clinical management strategies for such cases.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 100 patients with missing IUD strings.
• Documentation of IUD location (in utero, expelled, or elsewhere).

Main Results:

• In 69 of 100 cases, the IUD was located within the uterus.
• 17 cases involved unnoticed IUD expulsion.
• 9 IUDs were found in the peritoneal cavity, and 1 had perforated the cervix.
• Pregnancy occurred in 4 cases of in utero IUDs and 4 cases of expulsion.

Conclusions:

• The majority of missing IUD strings cases involve an in-utero device.
• Simple office-based procedures are often sufficient for IUD localization and removal.
• This approach can simplify management for many patients experiencing IUD string issues.