This case report details an unusual and unexpected finding in a 37-year-old woman with a history of two cesarean sections, who had an intrauterine device implanted. The patient presented with symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding and dysmenorrhea. An initial ultrasound confirmed the presence of the intrauterine device. However, a startling discovery was made during the intrauterine device removal procedure: fetal bones were found within the patient. This case underscores the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluations in gynecological practice, particularly when dealing with patients who have complex gynecological histories. Significantly, it brings to light the necessity of employing hysteroscopy for comprehensive diagnostic assessment in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding post-abortion. This approach could aid in identifying rare and unexpected findings, such as retained fetal bones, which might be missed by conventional ultrasound. The report emphasizes the need for vigilance and thoroughness in gynecological examinations and contributes to the understanding of potential complications and anomalies associated with intrauterine device usage and post-abortion care.
Keywords: Fetal bone retention; gynecological emergency; intrauterine device misdiagnosis; ultrasound diagnostic limits; uterine hemorrhage.
© The Author(s) 2024.