Appendix perforation by an intrauterine contraceptive device

Eric Ohana, Eyal Sheiner, Elad Leron, Moshe Mazor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

31 Scopus citations

Abstract

Perforation of the uterus by an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) is a rare, and serious complication, occurring in 1/350 to 1/2500 insertions. Perforation by IUDs can involve several neighboring organs such as the bladder and rectosigmoid. We report two cases of IUD perforations involving the appendix, both inserted during lactation. The first case is an asymptomatic patient in early pregnancy and the second is a woman whose original presentation was chronic lower abdominal pain. The presence of copper in the abdominal cavity can lead to adhesion formation and subsequent abdominal pain, bowel obstruction or infertility. Thus, we believe that when an IUD is located in the abdominal cavity it should be removed even in an asymptomatic patient. In addition, these cases might suggest postponing the use of this contraceptive method in lactating women. Copyright (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)129-131
Number of pages3
JournalEuropean Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology
Volume88
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2000

Keywords

  • Appendix
  • Intrauterine device
  • Lactation
  • Perforation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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