[Occult uterine perforation caused by an intrauterine device].

This article reports on a patient who had an asymptomatic perforation of the uterus by an intrauterine contraceptive device. Six and eight years later, the woman had normal pregnancies and deliveries. Ten years later an exploratory laparotomy was performed because of abdominal pain of unknown origin. The intrauterine device was surgically removed from Douglas' pouch. We summarize and discuss the complications due to a perforation of the uterus by an intrauterine contraceptive device and appropriate diagnostic procedures.