A novel device for removal of the retained intrauterine device.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of the Macaluso stent removal forceps for removal of retained intrauterine devices (IUDs) under direct vision using a hysteroscope in an outpatient setting. METHODS Nineteen consecutive patients with a retained IUD who had been referred from primary care to the gynaecologists at the Conquest Hospital, Hastings, UK were included in the study. Attempts were made to remove the IUDs under direct vision using the Gynecare Versascope and Macaluso forceps. RESULTS The procedure was successful in 18/19 (94.7%) patients. The patients tolerated the procedure well and none of them complained of severe pain. CONCLUSION This device is simple, safe, effective and acceptable for the removal of IUDs with lost threads.