[Three dimensional reconstruction of human endometrial spiral arteries preinsertion and postinsertion of IUD]

To investigate the micro-three dimensional changes of endometrial spiral arteries after insertion of different intrauterine devices (IUD).

Nine endometrium specimens were obtained from fertile age women, 3 from preinsertion, 3 obtained 3 months after insertion of TCu220C IUD, and 3 specimens obtained 3 months after insertion of gamma Cu IUD (releasing indomethacin 20 micrograms/day). All samples were collected in late secretory phase and were sectioned serially. By a TV camera, the images of sections were sent from a light microscope to a computer and converted into digital data. The spiral arteries of endometrium were reconstructed and visualized on a workstation by means of the software package for the three dimensional reconstruction and visualization. The curvature and torsion of the spiral arteries were calculated.

In preinsertion group, the spiral arteries curved regularly in three dimensions, and the average diameter was 22.69 microns, the average curvature was 0.96 and the average torsion was 1.27. The spiral arteries of gamma Cu IUD group had similar appearances as the preinsertion group. However, in TCu220C IUD group, the curves were irregular, and the average diameter was 17.99 microns, the average curvature was 1.48 and average torsion 1.86.

The three dimensional reconstruction of human endometrial spiral arteries was done by means of computerassisted reconstruction technology for the first time. The endometrium spiral arteries changed in morphology after insertion of copper IUD, and indomethacin may have contrary effects on copper.