Intrauterine contraceptive devices: evaluation by sonography

Abstract

The sonographic features of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUD), which allow identification of their intrauterine location, were evaluated in vitro and clinically in 50 patients. Posterior acoustic shadowing was seen in 90% of patients, entrance-exit reflections in 65%, and type-specific morphology in 94% of patients with Lippes Loops and in 81% with Copper 7 devices. Recognition of the characteristic features of the IUD and identification of endometrial mucosa around the IUD will allow unequivocal and accurate determination of its correct intrauterine location.