# Successful Removal of Six Levonorgestrel Silastic Subcutaneous Implants (Norplant) 25 Years After Insertion: A Case Report

**Authors:** Evan A Old, Shilpa Gajarawala, Dacre R Knight, Kaitlyn Pak, Aakriti R Carrubba

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.63585 · Cureus · 2024-07-01

## TL;DR

A woman successfully had contraceptive implants removed 25 years after insertion, highlighting challenges in long-term implant removal.

## Contribution

This case report demonstrates the successful removal of contraceptive implants after an unusually long duration.

## Key findings

- The implants were successfully removed despite being in place for 25 years.
- The patient experienced discomfort and palpability of the implants over time.
- Providers may be hesitant to remove implants after long durations.

## Abstract

Levonorgestrel-releasing silastic implants are a form of subdermal contraception that utilizes implanted silastic rods to release levonorgestrel, providing long-acting reversible contraception over an extended period of time. This case report presents a female who had lost a significant amount of weight after receiving levonorgestrel-releasing implants 25 years prior. During the elapsed period, the rods were palpable and uncomfortable. She had previously been unable to find a provider willing to remove the implants. This case highlights the possible complications surrounding the removal of levonorgestrel silastic subcutaneous implants and the careful consideration required when the implant has been in place for an extended period.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** levonorgestrel (PubChem CID 13109)

## Full-text entities

- **Chemicals:** Levonorgestrel (MESH:D016912)

## Full text

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## Figures

5 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11290371/full.md

## References

14 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11290371/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11290371