Lippes loops are a type of an intrauterine device (IUD). It is a flexible polyethylene plastic trapezoidal loop meant for long-term use.
Radiographic features
Plain radiograph
Radiopaque serpiginous material visualized within the mid-pelvis in an anterior posterior pelvic x-ray is the hallmark feature of a Lippes loop.
Ultrasound
Axial ultrasound slices will demonstrate hyperechoic, thick, linear tubular structure with classical rosette-beaded appearance mostly with sonolucent centers and rounded outer rings echo-densities.
CT
Appears as a double S-shaped radiodense material within the mid pelvis.
History and etymology
Lippes loops were first distributed in 1962, however, its usage dropped in the early 1980s as copper IUDs became more popular and manufacture ceased 3. They were developed by Jack Lippes (1924-2022), an American obstetrician-gynecologist 4,5.
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