Removal Procedure
Post removal care is similar to that of Jadelle
- Locate the implant by palpation and mark the distal end
- Apply iodine over the removal area
- Anaesthetize the arm with 1 ml lidocaine (1%) at the site of incision
- Make an incision of 2 mm in length in the longitudinal direction of the arm at the distal end of the implant.
- Gently push the implant towards the incision until the tip is visible.
- Grasp the implant with forceps (preferably 'mosquito' forceps) and remove it.
- If the implant is encapsulated, an incision into the tissue sheath should be made and the implant can then be removed with forceps
- If the tip of the implant is not visible, gently insert a forceps into the incision and grasp the implant.
- With a second forceps carefully dissect the tissue around the implant. The implant can then be removed.
- Close the incision with a butterfly closure.
- Apply sterile gauze with a pressure bandage to prevent bruising.
Key points about the removal procedure
- Must localize the implant prior to removal.
- Non-palpable implants should always first be localized by ultrasound (or MRI).
- After anaesthesizing the incision site, make a small longitudinal incision.
- Push the implant out or grasp it with forceps.
- Close the incision with butterfly closure and apply a pressure bandage