Evidencing successful experience in removing a lost Implanon using C-arm machine: A case report

Subdermal contraceptive implants are one method of long-acting reversible contraception. Implanon NXT provides contraception for 3 years, and Jadelle (Levonorgestrel-releasing implant) for 5 years. The implants are easy to remove through a small opening in the skin. In a small proportion of women the implant will not be palpable or, very rarely, may have migrated. Non-palpable and migrated implants can be removed in an outpatient setting, by doctors who are specially trained and have access to ultrasound and special instruments. In this case report authors share their experience using C-arm machine which resulted in successful removal of Implanon non-palpable contraceptive implant that had become misplaced.

A 26-year-old woman was referred to the hospital for lost Implanon after using Implanon as a long-acting contraceptive. GP's attempt to remove it in the clinic was unsuccessful. It appeared to be embedded in the muscle and after taking the X-ray elbow standard view, it was found to be located 15.6 cm from the dorsal surface of the olecranon process. It was successfully removed with the aid of C-arm machine.