[The value of ultrasonographic localization of intrauterine devices: results in 654 patients]

In a study to demonstrate the value of routine sonographic examination of IUDs 654 patients average age 33.3 were examined by Sonoline SL-2 sector scan 3.5 MHz with a 100-degree 3-crystal rotating-sector sound head. In the sonographic position check the transverse and longitudinal diameters of the uterus were measured the adnexal area examined and the IUD checked for symmetrical position in the uterus with the distance from front and rear walls and fundus as the most important parameters measured. In most cases the position of the IUD could be determined satisfactorily. The length of the IUD tail compared with the length at insertion gave a cross check to the IUD fundus distance. The most common problems were difficulty in visualizing the IUD intramural myomas which interfered with determination of wall thickness and in occasional cases marked retroflection of the uterus in which the IUD could not be visualized in spite of use of vaginal sonography. By means of this procedure sonographic checkup was successful in monitoring the contraceptive reliability of an IUD with a low expulsion rate and symmetrical structure. Use of this procedure increases the confidence of the patient of the reliability of the IUD method.