IUCD-related uterine perforations are one of the causes of uterine perforation. It is a rare, but serious complication of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), and is often clinically silent.
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Epidemiology
The incidence rate is reported at ~2 in 1000 2.
Risk factors
postpartum period <6 months
lactation
amenorrhea may increase the risk of perforation
Associations
atrophic/postpartum uterus
uterine structural abnormalities 5
large fibroids 5
Clinical presentation
Perforation of the uterus at the time of insertion may be clinically silent or cause significant pelvic pain. A late perforation may be asymptomatic, or present with non-specific lower abdominal pain. In all cases, the visible "strings" will be missing at direct inspection. Peritoneal sepsis is a rare presentation.
Pathology
IUCD-related uterine perforation ranges from embedment in the myometrium to complete transuterine perforation with a migration of the intrauterine contraceptive device into the peritoneal cavity 6.
Embedment refers to the penetration of an intrauterine contraceptive device into the endometrium or myometrium without extending through the serosa.
Intra-abdominal migration occurs when the intrauterine contraceptive device is freely floating in the abdomen or pelvis encased in adhesions or adherent to bowel or the omentum. Adhesions can lead to infertility, chronic pain, and intestinal obstruction 6.
Etiology
Uterine perforation is thought to be related to low estrogen levels leading to uterine shrinkage.
Radiographic features
Ultrasound is the recommended first-line investigation 3 in all women in whom the "strings" cannot be visualized. Orthogonal radiographs are often the second line. CT can be used in complex cases where visceral involvement or surgical difficulty is suspected.
Plain radiograph
an intrauterine contraceptive device lying lateral to midline may suggest the diagnosis
Ultrasound
may have a normal endometrial cavity on ultrasound
hyperechoic linear structure lying outside the uterus
Treatment and prognosis
Treatment depends on the degree of perforation and whether there are any complications (such as peritoneal sepsis or intestinal obstruction).