Innovative technique for Norplant implants removal

This study evaluates a unique and completely different approach from the original removal technique. The main objective of this technique is to facilitate removal of widely-spaced, deeply-positioned, and misplaced Norplant capsules. A local anesthetic is injected deep and perpendicular to the long axis of the Norplant rods. The hypodermic needle is left in place underneath the six silicone rods for the entire removal procedure. One or two 3-4mm vertical incisions were made between the capsules over the needle. The Norplant rods were dissected free from the fibrous tissue and the skin with a #11 blade. A curved mosquito forceps was inserted between the skin and the Norplant rod, to hook and deliver the capsule through the incision, from where it can be easily removed. This method resulted in far less time, effort, and skill from the health care provider, no damage to the capsules, and much less trauma to the clients.