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. 2006 Sep;40(3):105-9.
doi: 10.4314/gmj.v40i3.55262.

Intrauterine retained fetal bones as a cause of secondary infertility

Ek Srofenyoh  1 , M Addison, B Dortey, Pa Kuffour
Affiliations

Intrauterine retained fetal bones as a cause of secondary infertility

Ek Srofenyoh et al. Ghana Med J. 2006 Sep.

Abstract

SummaryThree cases of retained fetal bones, the first two after mid-trimester termination of pregnancy and the third after dilatation and evacuation (D&E) of the uterus for a missed abortion, are presented. All the cases were complicated by secondary infertility. In all the cases the diagnosis was confirmed by a high resolution pelvic ultrasound scan. The pieces of bones were removed at dilatation and evacuation under general anaesthesia. In two of the cases pregnancy occurred within 6 months of removal of the bones. It is believed that bones retained freely in the endometrial cavity behave as an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD). Because of the many complications associated with mid-trimester dilatation and evacuation of the uterus, its role in modern gynaecology should be limited. It is suggested that retained fetal bones should be considered in the differential diagnosis of women presenting to infertility clinics when there is a history of mid-trimester D&E of the uterus.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
USG Impression of Intrauterine Fetal bones.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Picture of retrieved bones (cm markings below).
Figure 3
Figure 3
Ultrasonogram of Case 2
Figure 4
Figure 4
Materials retrieved from the uterus of Case 2
Figure 5
Figure 5
Bones obtained from Case 3
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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