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Ma J, Wang M, Zuo Q, Ma H, Wu S. Analysis of use of different rFSHs during IVF/ICSI-assisted conception in elderly population and effect of double trigger on clinical outcomes. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2024; 37:2352790. [PMID: 38777799 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2024.2352790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the number of oocytes retrieved and clinical outcomes of ovulation induction in an older population treated with in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) (IVF/ICSI) using different rFSH options and the effectiveness of antagonist treatment to induce ovulation using gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) in combination with an human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) trigger. METHODS A total of 132 fresh cycles were selected for this study, which were treated with IVF/ICSI in our hospital from March 2022 to December 2022. Observations were made according to different subgroups and the effects of different triggering methods on the number of oocytes obtained, embryo quality, and clinical outcomes. RESULTS The initial gonadotropin (Gn) dose, the number of oocytes, and the number of MII oocytes were higher in group A than in group B (p < .05), and the clinical pregnancy rate was 29.41% in group A. Group B had a clinical pregnancy rate of 27.5%. The double-trigger group was superior to the HCG-trigger group in terms of the number of 2PN, the number of viable embryos, and the number of high-quality embryos (p < .05). The use of a double-trigger regimen (OR = 0.667, 95%CI (0.375, 1.706), p = .024) was a protective factor for the clinical pregnancy rate, whereas AFC (OR = 0.925, 95%CI (0.867, 0.986), p = .017) was an independent factor for the clinical pregnancy rate. CONCLUSIONS The use of a dual-trigger regimen of GnRH-a in combination with HCG using an appropriate antagonist improves pregnancy outcomes in fresh embryo transfer cycles in older patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxin Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Cangzhou City, China
| | - Mengna Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Cangzhou City, China
| | - Qianqian Zuo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Cangzhou City, China
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Cangzhou City, China
| | - Shangqing Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Cangzhou City, China
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Tyler B, Walford H, Tamblyn J, Keay SD, Mavrelos D, Yasmin E, Al Wattar BH. Interventions to optimize embryo transfer in women undergoing assisted conception: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analyses. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:480-500. [PMID: 35325124 PMCID: PMC9631462 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several interventions and techniques are suggested to improve the outcome of embryo transfer (ET) in assisted conception. However, there remains no consensus on the optimal practice, with high variations among fertility specialists. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aiming to identify effective interventions that could be introduced around the time of ET to improve reproductive outcomes. SEARCH METHODS We searched the electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL) from inception until March 2021 using a multi-stage search strategy of MeSH terms and keywords, and included all RCTs that evaluated an intervention in the 24-h period before/after ET in women undergoing IVF/ICSI. Our primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate post-ET confirmed as viable pregnancy on ultrasound scan. We assessed the risk of bias in included trials and extracted data in duplicate. We pooled data using a random-effect meta-analysis and reported using risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI. We explored publication bias and effect modifiers using subgroup analyses. OUTCOMES Our search yielded 3685 citations of which we included 188 RCTs (38 interventions, 59 530 participants) with a median sample size of 200 (range 26-1761). The quality of included RCTs was moderate with most showing a low risk of bias for randomization (118/188, 62.8%) and attrition (105/188, 55.8%) but there was a significant risk of publication bias (Egger's test P = 0.001). Performing ET with ultrasound guidance versus clinical touch (n = 24, RR 1.265, 95% CI 1.151-1.391, I2 = 38.53%), hyaluronic acid versus routine care (n = 9, RR 1.457, 95% CI 1.197-1.261, I2 = 46.48%) and the use of a soft versus hard catheter (n = 27, RR 1.122, 95% CI 1.028-1.224, I2 = 57.66%) led to higher clinical pregnancy rates. Other pharmacological add-ons also showed a beneficial effect including granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF: n = 4, RR 1.774, 95% CI 1.252-2.512, I2 = 0), Atosiban (n = 7, RR 1.493, 95% CI 1.184-1.882, I2 = 68.27%) and hCG (n = 17, RR 1.232, 95% CI 1.099-1.382, I2 = 57.76%). Bed rest following ET was associated with a reduction in clinical pregnancy (n = 6, RR 0.857, 95% CI 0.741-0.991, I2 = 0.01%). Other commonly used interventions, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, prophylactic antibiotics, acupuncture and cervical mucus removal, did not show a significant benefit on reproductive outcomes. Our effect estimates for other important outcomes, including miscarriage and live birth, were limited by the varied reporting across included RCTs. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Using ultrasound guidance, soft catheters and hyaluronic acid at the time of ET appears to increase clinical pregnancy rates. The use of Atosiban, G-CSF and hCG showed a trend towards increased clinical pregnancy rate, but larger trials are required before adopting these interventions in clinical practice. Bed rest post-ET was associated with a reduction in clinical pregnancy and should not be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bede Tyler
- UCL Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hugo Walford
- UCL Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jennifer Tamblyn
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stephen D Keay
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Coventry & Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Dimitrios Mavrelos
- UCL Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK,Reproductive Medicine Unit, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Ephia Yasmin
- UCL Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK,Reproductive Medicine Unit, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Bassel H Al Wattar
- Correspondence address. Reproductive Medicine Unit, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing, University College London Hospitals, London, UK, WC1E 6DB. E-mail:
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Cozzolino M, Vitagliano A, Di Giovanni MV, Laganà AS, Vitale SG, Blaganje M, Drusany Starič K, Borut K, Patrelli TS, Noventa M. Ultrasound-guided embryo transfer: summary of the evidence and new perspectives. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:524-542. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Liu R, Li Y, Miao Y, Wei Y, Guan M, Zhou R, Li X. Intrauterine air impairs embryonic postimplantation development in mice. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2017; 219:20-27. [PMID: 29031908 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although most embryologists load air bubbles into the catheter along with embryos during embryo transfer, the effects of these air bubbles on embryo transfer success rate are not clear. STUDY DESIGN Air bubbles were nonsurgically injected into unilateral uterine horns of mice to demonstrate the negative effects of intrauterine air bubbles on embryonic development. RESULTS Our data showed that when air bubbles are nonsurgically injected into unilateral uterine horns of pregnant 4days mice the litter size is significantly decreased. Four days after the introduction of air, abnormal decidua and dead conceptuses were detected in the uterine horns receiving the air bubbles. In addition, intrauterine air also significantly impaired murine embryo transfer success rates, and induced an increase in endometrial capillary permeability and decidualization in mice on day 4 of pseudopregnancy. These results strongly indicated that the air bubbles loaded into embryo transfer catheters to bracket the embryo-containing medium may have negative effect on embryonic implantation and development. CONCLUSIONS Intrauterine air impaired murine embryonic postimplantation development, and this provided some clues for improving embryo transfer techniques in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruonan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Yimeng Li
- College of Basic Medical Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, China
| | - Yanping Miao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Yanhui Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China
| | - Mo Guan
- MRC Harwell Institute, Harwell Campus, Mary Lyon Centre, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Rongyan Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China.
| | - Xiangyun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, 071000, China.
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Performing the embryo transfer: a guideline. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:882-896. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Brown J, Buckingham K, Buckett W, Abou-Setta AM. Ultrasound versus 'clinical touch' for catheter guidance during embryo transfer in women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 3:CD006107. [PMID: 26984325 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006107.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many women undergoing an assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle will not achieve a live birth. Failure at the embryo transfer stage may be due to lack of good-quality embryo/s, lack of uterine receptivity, or the transfer technique itself. Numerous methods, including the use of ultrasound guidance for proper catheter placement in the endometrial cavity, have been suggested as more effective techniques of embryo transfer. This review evaluates the efficacy of ultrasound-guided embryo transfer (UGET) compared with 'clinical touch' (CTET), which is the traditional method of embryo transfer and relies on the clinician's tactile senses to judge when the transfer catheter is in the correct position. OBJECTIVES To determine whether ultrasound guidance compared with clinical touch improves pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing embryo transfer during ART cycles. SEARCH METHODS For the 2016 update of this review, we ran updated searches in the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group trials register (May 2015), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (the Cochrane Library, May 2015), MEDLINE (2009 to May 2015), and EMBASE (2009 to May 2015). We also handsearched relevant conference proceedings: American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), and International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO). There were no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We included only randomised controlled trials. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed eligibility and quality of trials and extracted data from those selected. We calculated odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes. No outcomes were reported using continuous data. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence for the main findings using the GRADE working group methods. MAIN RESULTS This systematic review now has 21 included studies (four of which we added in the 2016 update), two studies awaiting assessment, and 47 excluded studies. In total, data for meta-analyses were available in 21 trials (n = 6218 women), of which only four reported live births.UGET was associated with an increased chance of a live birth/ongoing pregnancy compared with CTET (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.30 to 1.65; 13 trials; n = 5859 women; I(2) = 74%; low-quality evidence). Sensitivity analysis by including only trials with low risk of selection bias or by using a random-effects model did not alter the effect. We estimate that for women with a chance of a live birth/ongoing pregnancy of 23% using CTET, this would increase to between 28% and 33% using UGET. We considered the quality of the evidence using GRADE methodology to be low.UGET was associated with an increase in the chance of a clinical pregnancy (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.45; 20 trials; n = 6711 women; I(2) = 42%; moderate-quality evidence). We identified no differences between groups for the incidence of adverse events including multiple pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, or miscarriage. These events were relatively rare, and sample sizes limited the ability to detect such differences. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The evidence suggests ultrasound guidance improves the chance of live birth/ongoing and clinical pregnancies compared with clinical touch, without increasing the chance of multiple pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, or miscarriage. Methodological limitations included: only four studies reporting details of both computerised randomisation techniques and adequate allocation concealment, only four studies reported on the outcome of live birth, and none of the nine studies that reported on ongoing pregnancy reported on live birth, suggesting possible reporting bias. Adequate reporting of randomisation and allocation concealment will improve the quality of future studies. The primary outcome measure of future studies should be the reporting of live births per woman randomised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Brown
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Park Rd, Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand, 1142
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Teixeira DM, Dassunção LA, Vieira CVR, Barbosa MAP, Coelho Neto MA, Nastri CO, Martins WP. Ultrasound guidance during embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2015; 45:139-148. [PMID: 25052773 DOI: 10.1002/uog.14639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To summarize the current evidence on the effect of using ultrasound (US) guidance during embryo transfer (ET). METHODS In this systematic review, we included randomized controlled trials examining the effect of the use of US guidance during ET; data from studies using the same catheter type in study arms were not pooled with the results from studies that used different catheter types. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were included in the quantitative analysis: 18 compared 'US guidance' with 'clinical touch', of which one was subsequently excluded from the quantitative meta-analysis owing to a lack of available data, three studies compared transvaginal US guidance with transabdominal US guidance, and one study compared 'hysterosonometry before ET' with US guidance. Comparison of the use of US guidance with clinical touch, in studies that used the same catheter type in the study arms, indicated a benefit of using US guidance during ET on the rates of live birth (relative risk (RR), 1.48 (95% CI, 1.16-1.87)), based on two studies involving 888 women with moderate-quality evidence, and on the rates of clinical pregnancy (RR, 1.32 (95% CI, 1.18-1.46)), based on 13 studies involving 3641 women with high-quality evidence. However, when comparing the use of US guidance with clinical touch in studies that used different catheter types, the results suggest that using US guidance during ET has no effect on the rates of reproductive outcome: live birth (RR, 0.99 (95% CI, 0.83-1.19)), based on one study involving 1649 women with moderate-quality evidence; clinical pregnancy (RR, 1.04 (95% CI, 0.89-1.21)), based on five studies involving 2949 women with moderate-quality evidence. The estimates for the rate of miscarriage and for the other identified comparisons were imprecise. CONCLUSIONS The available evidence suggests that there is a benefit of using US guidance during ET. However, both US-guided transfer and clinical touch should be considered acceptable, as the benefit of US is not large and should be balanced against the increased cost and need to change the catheter type. More studies are required before conclusions can be drawn regarding the effect of other techniques on reproductive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo (DGO-FMRP-USP), Ribeirao Preto, Brazil; Evangelical University Hospital of Curitiba, Curitiba, Brazil
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Tiras B, Korucuoglu U, Polat M, Saltik A, Zeyneloglu HB, Yarali H. Effect of air bubble localization after transfer on embryo transfer outcomes. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2012; 164:52-4. [PMID: 22682963 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2012.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2011] [Revised: 04/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our study aimed to provide information about the effects of air bubble localization after transfer on embryo transfer outcomes. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of 7489 ultrasound-guided embryo transfers. Group 1 included 6631 embryo transfers in which no movement of the air bubbles was observed after transfer. Group 2 consisted of 407 embryo transfers in which the air bubbles moved towards the uterine fundus spontaneously, a little time after transfer. Group 3 included 370 embryo transfers in which the air bubbles moved towards the uterine fundus with ejection, immediately after transfer. Group 4 consisted of 81 embryo transfers in which the air bubbles moved towards the cervical canal. RESULTS The four patient groups were different from one another with respect to positive pregnancy tests. Post hoc test revealed that this difference was between group 4 and other groups. CONCLUSIONS An initial finding of our study was significantly decreased positive pregnancy test rates and clinical pregnancy rates with air bubbles moving towards the cervical canal after transfer. Although air bubbles moving towards the uterine fundus with ejection were associated with higher pregnancy rates, higher miscarriage rates and similar live birth rates were observed compared to air bubbles remaining stable after transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Tiras
- Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Porat N, Boehnlein LM, Schouweiler CM, Kang J, Lindheim SR. Interim analysis of a randomized clinical trial comparing abdominal versus transvaginal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2010; 36:384-92. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2009.01148.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Brown J, Buckingham K, Abou-Setta AM, Buckett W. Ultrasound versus 'clinical touch' for catheter guidance during embryo transfer in women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2010:CD006107. [PMID: 20091584 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006107.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many women undergoing an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycle will not achieve a live birth. Failure at the embryo transfer stage may be due to lack of good quality embryo/s, lack of uterine receptivity, or the transfer technique itself. Numerous methods, including the use of ultrasound guidance for proper catheter placement in the endometrial cavity, have been suggested as a more effective technique of embryo transfer. This review evaluates the effectiveness of ultrasound guided embryo transfer (UGET) compared with 'clinical touch' (CTET) the traditional method of embryo transfer. OBJECTIVES To determine whether ultrasound guidance influences treatment outcomes in women undergoing embryo transfer (ET) during assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. SEARCH STRATEGY Electronic databases were searched in November 2009. We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group trials register (searched November 2009), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2009), MEDLINE (1970-2009), EMBASE (1985-2009), BIO Extracts (1980-2009). Relevant conference proceedings were also hand searched (ASRM, ESHRE and FIGO). SELECTION CRITERIA Only randomised controlled trials were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently assessed eligibility and quality of trials and extracted data from those selected. MAIN RESULTS This update identified 59 potential trials of which 42 were excluded. Data for analysis was available in seventeen studies. One study reported live births and personal communication resulted in data relating to this outcome being obtained in two additional studies. There is no evidence of a significant difference in the outcome of live birth (OR 1.14 (95%CI0.93 to 1.39; P=0.02) although heterogeneity was high (64%) and the results should be interpreted with caution. Seven studies reported on ongoing pregnancies. The ongoing pregnancies per woman randomised associated with UGET (441/1254) was significantly higher than for clinical touch (350/1218) OR 1.38, 95%CI 1.16 to 1.64, P<0.0003). No statistically significant differences in the incidence of adverse events were identified between the comparison groups. These events are relatively rare and sample sizes limit the ability to detect such differences. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The studies are limited by their quality with only two studies reporting details of both computerised randomisation techniques and adequate allocation concealment. Ultrasound guidance does appear to improve the chances of live/ongoing and clinical pregnancies compared with clinical touch methods. The quality of future studies should be improved with adequate reporting of randomisation, allocation concealment, and power calculations. The primary outcome measure of future studies should be the reporting of live births per woman randomised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Brown
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, FMHS, Auckland, New Zealand
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Ali CR, Khashan AS, Horne G, Fitzgerald CT, Nardo LG. Implantation, clinical pregnancy and miscarriage rates after introduction of ultrasound-guided embryo transfer. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 17:88-93. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60298-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Among women undergoing embryo transfer, is the probability of pregnancy and live birth improved with ultrasound guidance over clinical touch alone? A systemic review and meta-analysis of prospective randomized trials. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:333-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2006] [Revised: 11/27/2006] [Accepted: 11/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Confino E, Zhang J, Risquez F. Air bubble migration is a random event post embryo transfer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2007; 24:223-6. [PMID: 17431757 PMCID: PMC3454967 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-007-9120-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2007] [Accepted: 02/20/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Air bubble location following embryo transfer (ET) is the presumable placement spot of embryos. The purpose of this study was to document endometrial air bubble position and migration following embryo transfer. DESIGN Multicenter prospective case study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty-eight embryo transfers were performed under abdominal ultrasound guidance in two countries by two authors. A single or double air bubble was loaded with the embryos using a soft, coaxial, end opened catheters. The embryos were slowly injected 10-20 mm from the fundus. Air bubble position was recorded immediately, 30 minutes later and when the patient stood up. RESULTS Bubble marker location analysis revealed a random distribution without visible gravity effect when the patients stood up. The bubble markers demonstrated splitting, moving in all directions and dispersion. CONCLUSION Air bubbles move and split frequently post ET with the patient in the horizontal position, suggestive of active uterine contractions. Bubble migration analysis supports a rather random movement of the bubbles and possibly the embryos. Standing up changed somewhat bubble configuration and distribution in the uterine cavity. Gravity related bubble motion was uncommon, suggesting that horizontal rest post ET may not be necessary. This report challenges the common belief that a very accurate ultrasound guided embryo placement is mandatory. The very random bubble movement observed in this two-center study suggests that a large "window" of embryo placement maybe present.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Confino
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Chen SC, Lai TH, Lee FK. The influence of abdominal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer on pregnancy rate: a preliminary report. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:1235-7. [PMID: 17296184 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2006] [Revised: 11/09/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
To determine whether the use of abdominal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer improves the clinical pregnancy rate in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization, 50 fresh cycles with day 3 embryo transfer were studied; 27 patients were randomized to ultrasound-guided transfers, and 23 patients were randomized to clinical touch transfers. Although the clinical pregnancy rate was not statistically different (18.5% in the ultrasound-guided group vs. 17.4% in the clinical touch group), the use of abdominal ultrasound during the embryo transfer procedure provided a greater degree of confidence and satisfaction to both patients and physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Chee Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Brown JA, Buckingham K, Abou-Setta A, Buckett W. Ultrasound versus 'clinical touch' for catheter guidance during embryo transfer in women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007:CD006107. [PMID: 17253582 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006107.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many women undergoing an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycle will not achieve a live birth. Failure at the embryo transfer stage may be due to poor embryo quality, lack of uterine receptivity, or the transfer technique itself. Numerous methods, including the use of ultrasound guidance for proper catheter placement in the endometrial cavity, have been suggested as a means of improving the technique of embryo transfer. This review evaluates the effectiveness of ultrasound (UGET) in comparison with 'clinical touch' embryo transfer (CTET) the traditional method of embryo transfer. OBJECTIVES :To determine whether ultrasound guidance influences treatment outcomes in women undergoing embryo transfer (ET) during assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. SEARCH STRATEGY All electronic databases were searched on 20 th August 2006. We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group trials register (searched August 2006), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2006), MEDLINE (1970-2006), EMBASE (1985-2006), BIO Extracts (1980-2006). Relevant conference proceedings were also hand searched (ASRM, ESHRE and FIGO). SELECTION CRITERIA Only randomised controlled trials were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently assessed eligibility and quality of trials and extracted data from those selected. MAIN RESULTS Thirteen out of fifteen identified studies were eligible for analysis. No study reported live births, however, personal communication resulted in data relating to this outcome being obtained in two of the studies. Six studies reported on ongoing pregnancies. The live birth/ ongoing pregnancies per woman randomised associated with UGET (452/1376) was significantly higher than for clinical touch (353/1338) OR 1.40, 95%CI 1.18 to 1.66, P<0.0001). This means, for example, that for a population of women with a 25% chance of pregnancy using clinical touch this would be increased to 32% (28% to 46%) by using UGET. There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of adverse events between the two comparison groups with the exception of blood on the catheter. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The studies are limited by their quality with only one of the thirteen studies reporting details of both computerised randomisation techniques and adequate allocation concealment. Ultrasound guidance does appear to improve the chances of live/ongoing and clinical pregnancies compared with clinical touch methods. The quality of future studies should be improved with adequate reporting of randomisation, allocation concealment, and power calculations. The primary outcome measure of future studies should be the reporting of live births per woman randomised.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Brown
- University of Auckland, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, FMHS, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Miller KL, Frattarelli JL. The pre-cycle blind mock embryo transfer is an inaccurate predictor of anticipated embryo transfer depth. J Assist Reprod Genet 2007; 24:77-82. [PMID: 17216563 PMCID: PMC3454990 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-006-9098-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2006] [Accepted: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess if the uterine cavity depth measured by a blind pre-cycle mock transfer changes after gonadotropin stimulation. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study at an academic IVF program involving 128 infertility patients. The main outcome measures were uterine cavity depth measured at the blind pre-stimulation mock transfer and the ultrasound-guided embryo transfer. RESULTS A >or= 1 cm increase in uterine cavity depth was found in 57.9% of the patients. The mean pre-cycle blind mock transfer uterine depth significantly differed from the mean uterine depth measured at embryo transfer. Based on the mock transfer, the anticipated embryo transfer depth was significantly less than the actual ultrasound-guided embryo transfer depth. CONCLUSION Uterine depth significantly differed between the blind pre-cycle mock transfer measurement and the ultrasound-guided embryo transfer measurement. The mock transfer may predict a difficult embryo transfer but it is an inaccurate predictor of the final embryo transfer depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin L. Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii USA
| | - John L. Frattarelli
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, 100 Franklin Square Drive, Suite 200, Somerset, NJ 08873 USA
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Flisser E, Grifo JA. Is what we clearly see really so obvious? Ultrasonography and transcervical embryo transfer—a review. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:1-5. [PMID: 17094986 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2006] [Revised: 05/08/2006] [Accepted: 05/08/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To critically review the role of ultrasound-guided embryo transfer (ET) and its influence on the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF). DESIGN Medline review of published manuscripts. RESULT(S) Studies evaluating the role of ultrasound-assisted ET have had mixed results, and although meta-analysis of prospective trials suggests an improvement in outcome, limitations in study design may overstate the effect of ultrasonography. Other ET techniques may eliminate the advantages provided by ultrasonography, limiting its benefit to specific clinical scenarios. However, because no trial has demonstrated an adverse effect and because cases that may benefit from its use often cannot be predicted reliably, the routine application of ultrasonography can be justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Flisser
- New York University Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA.
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