MODIFIED NEEDLE ELEVATION TECHNIQUE FOR MISPLACED NORPLANT(R) IMPLANTS REMOVAL

This study reports on a simple, feasible and easily learned technique for Norplant(R) implants removal. This technique is modified from the needle elevation technique. The objective of this study was to introdu ce an alternative Norplant implants removal technique, especially for misplaced capsules. Fifteen Norplant implants clients whose capsules w ere difficult to palpate had removal by this technique. The mean durat ion of Norplant implants use was 18.4 +/- 22.5 months. The mean length of removal time was 10.4 +/- 4.5 minutes. None of the capsules was da maged during the removal. No immediate or late complications were obse rved. The conclusion is that the modified needle elevation technique i s a simple and easy method of removing misplaced Norplant capsules wit h less complications.