IUCD-related uterine perforation

Last revised by Joshua Yap on 27 Feb 2023

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. 

The incidence rate is reported at ~2 in 1000 2.

  • postpartum period <6 months

  • lactation

  • amenorrhea may increase the risk of perforation

  • atrophic/postpartum uterus

  • uterine structural abnormalities 5

  • large fibroids 5

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.

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.

Uterine perforation is thought to be related to low estrogen levels leading to uterine shrinkage.

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.

  • an intrauterine contraceptive device lying lateral to midline may suggest the diagnosis

  • may have a normal endometrial cavity on ultrasound

  • hyperechoic linear structure lying outside the uterus

Treatment depends on the degree of perforation and whether there are any complications (such as peritoneal sepsis or intestinal obstruction).

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