On 21/1, representatives from Ca Mau General Hospital reported that the patient had experienced frequent, painful urination and hematuria over a prolonged period. She had sought treatment at multiple medical facilities, often diagnosed with cystitis or a urinary tract infection, undergoing several courses of treatment without lasting resolution.

The intrauterine device was removed. *Photo: Ca Mau General Hospital*

This time, an ultrasound and X-ray revealed an intrauterine device in the patient's bladder, with numerous stones adhering to its surface. This was identified as the direct cause of the irritation and urinary tract bleeding, leading to the prolonged, recurrent symptoms.

The patient stated she had the intrauterine device inserted about 22 years ago. She later underwent examinations and at one point wanted to have it removed, but it could not be found and was presumed to have expelled itself. About 5 years ago, she experienced painful, frequent urination and hematuria, but examinations at that time revealed no abnormalities.

Doctors surgically removed the intrauterine device along with all the stones adhering to it from the patient's bladder. Following the procedure, her symptoms ceased, her health stabilized, and she was discharged on the morning of 21/1.

According to Dr. Quach Huu Loi, Specialist Level II and Head of the General Surgery Department at Ca Mau General Hospital, an intrauterine device migrating into the bladder and remaining for an extended period is a rare occurrence. It can be easily overlooked or confused with common urinary tract conditions if diagnosis relies solely on clinical symptoms. Comprehensive imaging diagnostics play a pivotal role in correctly identifying the cause of the illness.

An Minh