[Removal of incarcerated intrauterine devices by combined methods]

Incarcerated IUDs are difficult to manage. Through clinical analysis of 41 cases with incarcerated IUDs, the value of X-ray, ultrasonographic and hysteroscopic examinations in combined use was assessed, especially in locating and describing the concrete shape of the incarcerated IUD before and during the removal operations. With the aid of these diagnostic methods 39 IUDs (95.12%) were removed through the vaginal route, while the remaining 2 (4.88%) were taken out by laparotomy, one had hyperplasia of the endometrium accompanied by retained broken pieces of the IUD, the other had uterine anomaly (uterus didelphys) with an incarcerated IUD. 40 out of the 41 IUDs were stainless steel rings, and only 1 was a Cu V IUD. The advantages and drawbacks of the three above-mentioned diagnostic were discussed as well as the effect of use. The different method of IUD removal were described.