A HOOK-TRACTION TECHNIQUE FOR NORPLANT REMOVAL

We describe a simple technique to facilitate the removal of difficult- to-remove Norplant implants. Through a standard skin incision for Norp lant removal, the fibrous capsule surrounding the implant is secured u sing either a dermatologic skin hook or a 25-gauge hypodermic needle f ashioned into a hook with a hemostat. Traction is applied to bring the fibrous sheath into the incision site, where the implant tip is disse cted free using a scalpel. The precisely localized countertraction aff orded by this technique provides increased accuracy and speed for the removal of difficult-to-extract implants. Tissue trauma is minimized a nd the need to extend the skin incision is reduced.