Fertility after hysteroscopic management of retained intrauterine bones: a case report

Retained intrauterine fetal bone is a rare event that happens after an induced pregnancy termination, usually illegal, especially during the second and third trimesters, due to the incomplete evacuation of fetal tissues. It can cause secondary infertility as bone fragments can work as an intrauterine contraceptive device. We present a case of compromised fertility due to the presence of fetal bony sequestra in the uterine cavity in a 36-year-old female who presented with secondary infertility of eight years duration, following a history of second-trimester voluntary termination of pregnancy. Diagnostic evaluation included ultrasound and hysterosonography. Hysteroscopy confirmed the presence of a fetal bone fragment in the uterine cavity. The patient underwent operative hysteroscopy under loco-regional anesthesia for the removal of the bony sequestra. Pregnancy occurred six months following treatment, and she delivered a term live baby. Retained intrauterine fetal bones should be considered as a possible cause of infertility in women with a history of second-trimester abortion.