Translocation of the Dalkon Shield into the broad ligament.

ABSTRACT

PIP: A serious complication following the insertion of an IUD is perforation of the uterus and translocation of the device into the abdominal cavity. Uterine perforation can be divided into "primary" ones, the most common, which are related to the insertion procedure, and "secondary" ones, which are caused by uterine contractions. A rare type of secondary perforation is to the broad ligament. Heretofore, only 4 such cases have been reported. 2 additional cases, occurring with the Dalkon shield, are reported here. Although the translocation of an IUD into the leaves of the broad ligament is rare, this complication should be considered whenever an IUD cannot be removed by pulling the strings. 2 possible complications--rupturing of the uterine vessels causing serious intraabdominal bleeding and infection, with potential danger of peritonitis and sepsis--could greatly endanger the patient's life. The 2 cases reported here were resolved satisfactorially.