Implanon removals

Implanon Removals

Professor Gab Kovacs

Implanon has been available for patient use since May 2001. In the last four years over 271,000 women have chosen Implanon as their method of contraception.

Whilst the majority of insertions have been uneventful there has been some publicity about some non-insertions. It is important to ensure that the Implanon rod is inserted superficially, that the rod is not left in the inserter after insertion, and that it is easily palpable superficially in the arm after insertion.

As some of the rods have been in in-situ for more than three years, many doctors and specialists will be asked to remove and change these over in the coming months.

It is estimated that in 2005 there will be nearly 35,000 women who will request having an Implanon rod removed from their arm following the technique taught in the Implanon insertion sessions.

As long as the rod is easily palpable this should be very simple.

If the Implanon rod cannot be palpated

Our very strong advice to doctors and specialists is that if the rod cannot be palpated, do not attempt to remove it.

If the rod is not palpable, you should first advise the patient to use a back-up method of contraception until the presence of the implant can be confirmed. This, in the first instance should be done by an ultrasound examination, but it is important that the person who is doing this is someone with expertise with Implanon localisations.

Through our networks we have established a number of referral centres, which are “centres of experience” for localisation of Implanon in the upper arm. The clinicians at these centres are either sub-specialist ultrasonologists, or radiologists with an interest in the removal of foreign bodies More ( 14 KB)

Attempts to remove an Implanon rod, which is not palpable, will result in a frustrating experience both for the patient and the operator.

If you do not know who has special experience in Implanon removals in your particular area, the State office of Family Planning Australia will be able to assist or if you have queries, you can contact the Organon Implanon Information Line on: 1800 644546.

In a case of an uncomplicated Implanon removal, a new Implanon rod can be inserted through the same incision at the very same time using the well recognised Implanon insertion techniques.

© RANZCOG