Published online Apr 6, 2022. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i10.3194
Peer-review started: August 28, 2021
First decision: November 17, 2021
Revised: November 22, 2021
Accepted: February 22, 2022
Article in press: February 22, 2022
Published online: April 6, 2022
Processing time: 213 Days and 6.4 Hours
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a commonly used contraceptive among women in China. It is widely used because it is safe, effective, simple, economic, and reversible. Among the possible complications, an ectopic IUD in the bladder is rare. It occurs insidiously, has a long course, is associated with a high risk for injury, and is difficult to treat.
A 44-year-old woman was admitted for repeated episodes of urinary frequency, urgency, and dysuria over three months. Laboratory tests revealed significantly elevated urine leukocytes and bacteria. Urine culture suggested colonization with Enterococcus faecalis. Abdominal computed tomography images suggested an abnormally positioned IUD that was protruding into the bladder. Cystoscopy revealed a metallic foreign body with multiple stones on its surface in the left posterior bladder wall. The foreign body measured approximately 1 cm. Hysteroscopy revealed the arm of a V-type metal IUD embedded in the middle and upper sections of the anterior wall of the cervical canal. The majority of the IUD was located in the uterine cavity. Cystoscopy was performed, and a holmium laser was utilized to break the stones attached to the portion of the IUD in the bladder. The IUD was then removed through hysteroscopy.
Ectopic IUDs in the bladder can be diagnosed with thorough imaging and safely removed through cystoscopy or hysteroscopy.
Core Tip: The intrauterine device (IUD) is a commonly used method of birth control, and its displacement into the bladder is very rare. A patient was diagnosed with an ectopic IUD in the bladder after undergoing clinical and radiologic examinations. When patients of childbearing age present with recurrent hematuria, urinary tract infections, and have a history of IUD insertion, an ectopic IUD should be considered.