Implant Makes Its Way to Woman's Lung: Unusual Incident Reported
In a rare but concerning incident, a woman in her 30s in the U.K. discovered that her contraceptive implant, a Nexplanon, had migrated to her left lung after six years. This case, detailed in a report published in the BMJ Case Reports on January 30, 2023, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of approaching healthcare with a focus on patient safety and care.
Nexplanon is a small plastic rod that releases progestin to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering cervical mucus. Typically, these implants are designed to last for three years before requiring replacement. However, in this instance, the misplaced implant traveled from the woman's upper arm to her heart and finally settled in her lower left lung.
Upon further investigation, doctors determined that the original implantation procedure had not been performed correctly, leading to the implant becoming dislodged shortly after insertion. improper insertion technique, deep or sub-fascial placement, and the physical movement of the implant after insertion can contribute to contraceptive implant migration, as highlighted in a study conducted between 2006 and 2015 which identified 38 cases of implant migration reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Migration can cause nerve compression injuries, such as ulnar nerve damage, from direct trauma, edema, or improper insertion/removal techniques. In this case, the woman initially sought medical attention because she could no longer feel the implant beneath the skin of her left arm. However, she remained asymptomatic, leading to a decision to forego surgical intervention due to the implant's dormancy and cessation of progestin release.
Despite the rarity of such incidents, it underscores the risks associated with contraceptive implant migration. Migration may result in serious complications such as bleeding, blood clots, organ punctures, neurological damage, and need for surgical interventions. The FDA has issued safety communications warning about these risks associated with Nexplanon implants.
As medical marvels and mysteries coexist, each case should be approached with care, curiosity, and a commitment to advancing healthcare practices. Medical professionals must navigate the complexities of reproductive health and contraceptive technology with a focus on patient safety. Proper medical procedures and patient care are crucial in preventing cases of contraceptive implant migration and ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients.
- This unfortunate incident involving a woman's Nexplanon contraceptive implant migrating to her lung underscores the necessity of focusing on patient safety and care in healthcare.
- improper insertion technique, deep or sub-fascial placement, and the physical movement of implants after insertion can contribute to contraceptive implant migration, as demonstrated by a study from 2006 to 2015.
- Migration of contraceptive implants can result in serious complications like neurological damage, blood clots, organ punctures, and require surgical interventions.
- The Food and Drug Administration has issued safety communications addressing the risks associated with Nexplanon implants, emphasizing the importance of proper medical procedures and patient care.
- In light of these findings, it becomes crucial for medical professionals to navigate the complexities of reproductive health and contraceptive technology with a focus on patient safety and the best possible outcomes.
