Insertion and removal of a single implant contraceptive releasing 3-ketodesogestrel

Abstract

With the objective to discover a single implantable contraceptive that highly effective, acceptable and safe a single ethylene vinyl acetate-rod containing 3-ketodesogestrel (Implanon®) was developed. Implanon is a second-generation of implantable contraceptive. It is to be inserted subdermally into the inner side of the upper arm with or without using local anesthesia. Implanon® was delivered in the needle of a sterile, disposable, specially designed inserter, individually packed. In order to have a proper insertion one should pay special attention to: infection prevention, correct subdermal placement of the implant, and careful technique to minimize trauma. The average insertion time is 1.2 minutes. Removal take longer time than insertion. With pop-out technique or standard technique, removal will not be difficult provided the implant inserted properly. The average of removal time is 5.0 minutes. The step by step of insertion and removal procedures (practical guidelines) is described. In order to be competence in insertion and removal training is mandatory for doctors or midwives/nurses who wish to participate in Implanon services. This is the third paper of three papers reported on phase II study with a single implant containing 3-ketodesogestrel.