Ultrasonic visualization of NORPLANT subdermal contraceptive devices.

This article describes the first use of ultrasound in locating in vivo NORPLANT subdermal contraceptive implants. Providing low dose, continuous contraception for women. the NORPLANT system utilizes Silastic tubing filled with levonorgestrel. The progestin-filled tubing is not radiopaque. Anticipating the large scale use of NORPLANT subdermal implants, the potential, but rare problem of difficult localization of an implant is recognized. The feasibility of using ultrasound for the painless and safe localization of NORPLANT rods and capsules is demonstrated.