The Massouras "Ducks Foot" and Butterfly IUD. [Abstract]

2 fan-shaped IUDs are described and their method of insertion is characterized. The 2 devices the Massouras "Ducks Foot" (MDF) and the Butterfly are made of nonirritating supple polyethylene with BaSO4 for x-ray detection. They are of Y-shaped contour with 2 horizontal feet at the end of the vertical stem and 2 triangular wings covering the space between the 2 branches of the V. To insert the MDF the 2 branches of the V are brought together using forceps. The 2 wings are then folded and the 2 branches of the V open like a fan coming in contact with the lateral sides of the uterus. The wings unfold and cover the uterine cavity leaving no free space for adhesion formation or conception. Because of the fan shape the following advantages are seen: 1) no perforation of the uterus 2) no expulsions due to the 2 branches of the V shape causing resistance against the uterine sides 3) low pregnancy rate (1%) even if incorrectly inserted because the 2 wings cover the entire uterine cavity of any size uterus 4) better ultrasonic scanning detection because of the devices large surface 5) no observed endometrial inflammatory reactions and 6) similar bleeding and pain syndromes as other IUDs. Indications for use of the MDF and Butterfly IUDs include: 1) midmenstruation insertions 2) prevention of adhesion formation hence fewer sterility problems 3) for therapeutic purposes such as after removal of large myomas and 4) to increase the size of a small uterus.