International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI)
Mystery at the Navel-A Surgical Detective Story on Migration of Copper T to the Anterior Abdominal Wall: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Published May 29, 2026 • Vol. 13, Issue 5, pp. 3429–3435Open Access
DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2026.1305000075
Abstract
Background: Uterine perforation and extra-uterine migration of intrauterine devices (IUDs) are uncommon complications. Migration to the anterior abdominal wall is extremely rare, with only sporadic reports in the literature.
Case presentation: We report a 22 year-old woman who presented with one month history of pain and discharge from the umblicus. She had a history of Copper T insertion three years earlier. Clinical examination revealed a firm, non-tender swelling in the lower anterior abdominal wall. Ultrasonography and computed tomography demonstrated a T-shaped metallic foreign body located in the anterior abdominal wall, superficial to the rectus sheath. The device was successfully retrieved through a diagnostic laparoscopy followed by open omphalectomy. The postoperative period was uneventful.
Conclusion: Migration of a Copper T to the anterior abdominal wall is an exceptionally rare occurrence. Missing IUD threads should prompt evaluation for migration. A combination of ultrasound, X-ray, and CT scan aids accurate localization. Surgical retrieval, either laparoscopic or open, remains the definitive management.
Keywords: Copper T, intrauterine device, uterine perforation, migration, anterior abdominal wall, laparoscopy
| Journal | International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) |
|---|---|
| ISSN | 2321-2705 |
| Volume / Issue | Volume 13, Issue 5 |
| Pages | 3429–3435 |
| Publication date | May 29, 2026 |
| DOI | 10.51244/IJRSI.2026.1305000075 |
| Publisher | RSIS International |
| License | Open Access |
How to cite this article
Dr. V. M. K. Ayesha Reshma (Postgraduate), & Dr. M. Arulkumaran MS, MRCS, DA(Professor) (2026). Mystery at the Navel-A Surgical Detective Story on Migration of Copper T to the Anterior Abdominal Wall: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), 13(5), 3429-3435. https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2026.1305000075
BibTeX
@article{Dr2026,
title = {Mystery at the Navel-A Surgical Detective Story on Migration of Copper T to the Anterior Abdominal Wall: A Case Report and Review of the Literature},
author = {Dr. V. M. K. Ayesha Reshma (Postgraduate) and Dr. M. Arulkumaran MS, MRCS, DA(Professor)},
journal = {International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI)},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
pages = {3429--3435},
year = {2026},
doi = {10.51244/IJRSI.2026.1305000075},
publisher = {RSIS International}
}