The management of intrauterine devices following uterine perforation.

The generally accepted indications for removal of an intra-abdominal intrauterine device (IUD) are: a) a closed variety of IUD, b) medicated IUDs with copper or hormone release, and c) a medico-legal or psychological problem. A perforated IUD can be left in the peritoneal cavity if it is made of non-irritating plastic. The copper IUD causes adhesions, but these lead to few cases of serious complications. The reason for removal of the IUD stems only from the fear of adhesion formation. Our experience, supported by the literature, leads us to believe that this indication should no longer be accepted.