Incidence of Interstitial Pregnancy After In Vitro Fertilization/Embryo Transfer and the Outcome of a Consecutive Series of 38 Cases Managed by Laparoscopic Cornuostomy or Cornual Repair

A rare case of extraluminal interstitial pregnancy treated with laparoscopic cornuotomy

We report an extremely rare case of an extraluminal interstitial pregnancy. A 36-year-old nulliparous woman visited our hospital during the fifth week of gestation. Although no intrauterine gestational sac (GS) was identified, transabdominal ultrasonography revealed a GS-like cyst was detected in the right uterine horn. She underwent laparoscopic surgery for a suspected interstitial ectopic pregnancy. After laparoscopic cornuotomy, dye leakage was observed from the fimbria rather than the incision site. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with a right extraluminal interstitial pregnancy. Hysterosalpingography performed at three postoperative months revealed bilateral tubal passage. She conceived 7 months after surgery, with safe delivery by elective cesarean section at 38 weeks.

Risk factor for interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy? A retrospective matched case control study

BACKGROUND

Interstitial pregnancy may still happen even after ipsilateral salpingectomy, resulting in massive hemorrhage. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to identify risk factors associated with interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy and discuss possible prevention.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a single, large, university-affiliated hospital. Data of 29 patients diagnosed with interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy from January 2011 to November 2020 were assigned into the case group (IP group). Whereas there were 6151 patients with intrauterine pregnancy after unilateral salpingectomy in the same period. A sample size of 87 control patients was calculated to achieve statistical power (99.9%) and an α of 0.05. The age, BMI and previous salpingectomy side between the two group were adjusted with PSM at a ratio of 1:3. After PSM, 87 intrauterine pregnancy patients were successfully matched to 29 IP patients.

RESULTS

After PSM, parous women were more common and intrauterine operation was more frequent in the IP group compared with control group (P<0.05). There was only one patient undergoing IVF-ET in the IP group as compared with 29 cases in the control group (3.4% vs. 33.3%, P<0.05). Salpingectomy was performed on 5 patients in the IP group and 4 patients in the control group due to hydrosalpinx (P<0.05). Logistic regression indicated that hydrosalpinx was the high risk factor of interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy (OR = 8.175).

CONCLUSIONS

Hydrosalpinx appears to be an independent factor contributing to interstitial pregnancy following ipsilateral salpingectomy in subsequent pregnancy.

The time interval between laparoscopic tubal ligation and frozen-thawed embryo transfer does not affect the reproductive outcomes

BACKGROUND

Hydrosalpinx may decrease implantation and pregnancy rates after embryo transfer. Laparoscopic tubal ligation after embryo freeze and before frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) is effective at improving reproductive outcomes for hydrosalpinx patients. This study is to find out the optimal interval between laparoscopic tubal ligation and FET.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 259 infertile women who performed laparoscopic tubal ligation for embryo freeze and FET. Participants were divided into three groups, based on the interval between laparoscopic tubal ligation and FET. Group I: <30 days; Group II: 31- 60 days; Group III: >60 days. Outcomes of cleavage-stage and blastocyst-stage embryo FET were analyzed respectively.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, implantation rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, ectopic pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate and preterm birth rate among the three groups, in both cleavage-stage and blastocyst-stage embryo FET cycles. In cleavage-stage embryo FET cycle, singleton gestational age was significantly younger in group III (38.11 ± 2.28 weeks) compared with group I (39.29 ± 1.06 weeks, P = 0.001) and group II (38.96 ± 1.05, P = 0.026). Singleton birth weight was significantly heavier in group II (3.65 ± 0.32 Kg) compared with group I (3.38 ± 0.29 Kg, P = 0.001) and group III (3.35 ± 0.60 Kg, P = 0.004). Twin birth weight was significantly heavier in group III (2.72 ± 0.43 Kg) compared to group I (2.23 ± 0.67 Kg, P = 0.002). In blastocyst-stage embryo FET cycles, twin gestational age was significantly younger in group II (34.07 ± 3.18 weeks) compared with group I (35.56 ± 2.27 weeks, P = 0.049) and group III (36.50 ± 1.47 weeks, P = 0.005). Twin birth weight was significantly heavier in group III (2.71 ± 0.39 Kg) compared to group II (2.39 ± 0.67 Kg, P = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

The duration of the interval between laparoscopic tubal ligation and FET does not affect the reproductive outcomes; however, it may affect the neonate outcomes to some extent.

Optimizing intrauterine insemination and spontaneous conception in women with unilateral hydrosalpinx or tubal pathology: A systematic review and narrative synthesis

BACKGROUND

Tubal surgery's role in infertile women with unilateral tubal pathology (e.g. hydrosalpinx, tubal occlusion) who desire spontaneous or intrauterine insemination (IUI) conception where in-vitro fertilisation is infeasible remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review on fertility outcomes in women with unilateral tubal pathology desiring to conceive spontaneously or via IUI and to find guidance to support therapeutic tubal procedures to help these women conceive.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Using a protocol registered on PROSPERO (ID CRD42021248720), we searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library from inception until June 2022. Bibliographies were reviewed to identify other relevant articles.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected and extracted data. Disagreements were resolved by a third author. Studies presenting fertility outcome data in infertile women with unilateral tubal pathologies desiring spontaneous or IUI conception were included. Methodologic quality was assessed using a modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale for observational studies and the Institute of Health Economics Quality Appraisal Checklist for case series. Primary outcomes collated included cumulative pregnancy rate (CPR) and pregnancy rate per cycle (PR/cycle). Secondary outcomes such as ectopic pregnancy, birth outcomes, and pelvic inflammatory disease were collated. These were stratified by the types of unilateral tubal occlusion (UTO) i.e. hydrosalpinx, proximal tubal occlusion (PTO), or distal tubal occlusion (DTO) MAIN RESULTS: Two studies reported spontaneous or IUI pregnancies after treatment of unilateral hydrosalpinx with one reporting a pregnancy rate of 88% within 5.6 months on average. Thirteen studies compared IUI outcomes between women with UTO vs unexplained infertility and bilateral tubal patency (controls). Almost all were retrospective cohort studies and identified UTO by hysterosalpingography. In general, PTOs had no difference in PR/cycle and CPR compared to controls and significantly higher PR/cycle to DTOs. Women with DTOs had minimal incremental CPR benefit with each additional IUI cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

Therapeutic salpingectomy or tubal occlusion improve IUI or spontaneous conception in women with hydrosalpinx, although more prospective studies are needed. While significant study heterogeneity hampered assessment of fertility outcomes, overall, infertile women with PTOs had similar IUI pregnancy outcomes to those with bilateral tubal patency while DTOs had inferior PR/cycle. This review highlights significant deficiencies in the evidence guiding management for this group of patients.

Laparoscopically assisted hysteroscopic removal of an interstitial pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To illustrate a combined technique of hysteroscopy and laparoscopy for the management of interstitial ectopic pregnancies.

DESIGN

A description of a patient case and demonstration of a surgical technique.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

PATIENT(S)

A 33-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 0-0-1-0 status post in vitro fertilization cycle with single embryo transfer, was diagnosed with an unruptured right interstitial pregnancy at 5 weeks of gestation. She has a history of a pregnancy of unknown location with her first in vitro fertilization transfer and received methotrexate. The beta-human chorionic gonadotropin level was 2,726 mIU/mL. She was counseled on treatment options and declined treatment with methotrexate because of the negative side effects she experienced previously. She opted for surgical management and desired to keep her fallopian tubes if possible because she wished to try for spontaneous conception.

INTERVENTION(S)

The patient underwent multipuncture video laparoscopy, and a bulge was seen at the right cornua. Video hysteroscopy initially revealed an empty uterine cavity. Using atraumatic graspers, the interstitial pregnancy was gently pushed further into the uterine cavity using a milking technique. The pregnancy was then able to be visualized hysteroscopically. Products of conception were gently dislodged and removed with graspers, followed by a suction curettage.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

This technique resulted in minimal blood loss, preservation of reproductive organs, and expedient return to conception planning.

RESULT(S)

The postoperative course was uncomplicated, and the patient was discharged the same day as surgery. After the procedure, weekly beta-human chorionic gonadotropin was drawn until the level reached <1 mIU/mL, which occurred after 4 weeks. Hysterosalpingography was performed 2 months after the procedure and demonstrated bilateral tubal patency.

CONCLUSION(S)

In select patients, an early interstitial pregnancy can be safely removed using the described technique. Although hysteroscopic removal of interstitial pregnancies is not a new concept, the addition of simultaneous video laparoscopy provides the benefit of allowing for fertility-sparing removal of the pregnancy, even if it is not initially visualized hysteroscopically. The use of this technique may result in minimal blood loss and preservation of the fallopian tubes. Furthermore, with the myometrium integrity maintained, the patient may resume sooner attempts at conception.

Live birth rate and neonatal outcomes following interventional embolization of hydrosalpinx

BACKGROUND

Hydrosalpinx has a negative effect on the pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), and the pretreatment for hydrosalpinx play an important role in improving the outcomes of IVF-ET. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of interventional embolization of hydrosalpinx on the live birth rate and neonatal outcome after in-vitro fertilization.

METHOD

In the present retrospective study, 3351 women receiving the first frozen embryo transfer (FET) after freeze-all policy were reviewed. Patients who received interventional embolization of hydrosalpinx (n = 1268) were included in the study group and those with hydrosalpinx-free bilateral fallopian tube obstruction (n = 2083) in the control group. The primary outcome was live birth (LB) rate; the secondary endpoints included rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy (CP), multiple pregnancy, and pregnancy loss.

RESULTS

The LB rate was similar between embolization group (39.91%) and control group (43.21%) (P > 0.05). The rate of implantation (35.81% vs. 32.24%), CP (50.84% vs. 47%) and multiple pregnancy rate (28.71% vs. 24.16%) in the control group were significantly higher than in the embolization group (P < 0.05). The miscarriage rate (39.91%, vs 43.21%, P > 0.05), ectopic gestation rate (2.35% vs 2.83%, P > 0.05), and ongoing pregnancy rate (41.56% vs 44.89%, P > 0.05) were comparable between two groups. After adjustment for confounding factors, interventional embolization of hydrosalpinx was found to have no influence on the LB rate. The thicker endometrium, more embryos transferred, and transfer of blastocyst stage embryos significantly increased the LB rate and CP rate.

CONCLUSION

The interventional embolization of hydrosalpinx can achieve the LB rate similar to that of hydrosalpinx-free obstruction patients with less risk, less pain and reduced medical cost. Thus, embolization of hydrosalpinx is one of the preferable clinical treatments for patients with hydrosalpinx.

Interstitial Pregnancy Treated with Mifepristone and Methotrexate with High Serum β-hCG Level in a Patient Wishing to Preserve Fertility: Time to Define Standardized Criteria for Medical/Surgical Therapy?

Interstitial pregnancy (IP) accounts for 2% of all ectopic pregnancies and has a mortality rate of 2-2.5%. The diagnosis is made by a transvaginal ultrasound and the treatment can be medical or surgical. We report the case of a 36-year-old primigravida who was 6 + 5 weeks pregnant, diagnosed with interstitial pregnancy by ultrasound, who had a very high serum β-hCG level (31,298 mIU/mL) and wanted to preserve her fertility. The patient was treated with one dose of mifepristone and a double dose of methotrexate since the decrease in the β-hCG serum level was less than 15% after the first dose. At the beginning, medical therapy was effective, as no embryonal cardiac activity was detected and serum β-hCG levels decreased early, but on the 20th day of hospitalization, the patient underwent surgery for her clinical symptoms and the evidence of free fluid in the Douglas pouch at a transvaginal ultrasound exam. Our experience showed that medical treatment should be considered, especially in women wishing to preserve their fertility. Further studies are needed to establish a standardized protocol and maybe a clinical score that can be useful in predicting the patients in which medical therapy could be most successful.

Effect of previous wedge resection for interstitial pregnancy on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes following frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles of IVF/ICSI: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to evaluate pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in women, with a previous history of wedge resection for interstitial pregnancy, in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles of IVF/ICSI.

METHODS

The present study involved a retrospective case-control assessment of 75 cases and 375 control subjects over 6 years in a single center. To compare pregnancy and neonatal outcomes between cases, treated using wedge resection, and controls without any previous history of ectopic pregnancy, propensity score matching (1:5) was utilized. The study also compared subgroups in the case group.

RESULTS

Women with previous wedge resection exhibited higher rates of ectopic pregnancy and uterine rupture rate as compared to control subjects (9.1% vs 1.3%, P = 0.025 and 4.5% vs 0%, P = 0.035, respectively). No statistically significant differences were recorded between the two cohorts with regard to clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, and neonatal outcomes. For pregnancy type subgroup analysis, Z-score and rates of large for gestational age were recorded to be significantly lower in twin pregnancy subgroup when compared with singleton pregnancy subgroup (0.10 (- 0.59, 0.25) vs 0.50 (- 0.97, 1.39), P = 0.005; 4.5% vs 26.1%, P = 0.047, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicated that previous wedge resection correlated to a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy and uterine rupture. However, it might not be related to an increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes. The study recommended cesarean section in these patients. Further studies are required to verify the validity of current recommendations.

Complete Rupture of the Pregnant Uterus: A 10-year Retrospective Descriptive Study

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this work is to analyze the incidence, etiology, clinical characteristics, maternal and neonatal outcomes of complete uterine rupture during pregnancy.

METHODS

The information of complete uterine rupture between June 2010 and May 2020 was investigated retrospectively at a tertiary center, and included demographic data, delivery characteristics, intraoperative findings, and maternal and neonatal outcomes. The prevalence rate of uterine rupture in the early group (hospitalized from June 2010 to May 2015) and late group (June 2015 to May 2020) was compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 37 (0.056%) cases of complete uterine rupture in 66 092 births, including 27 (0.041%) of scar uterus and 10 (0.015%) of non-scarred uterus. High-risk factors for scarred uterine rupture included: previous cesarean section (13, 48.1%), myomectomy (8, 29.6%), corneal pregnancy resection (6, 22.2%), history of uterine rupture (1, 3.7%), and uterus perforation during abortion (1, 3.7%). Compared to the early group, the number of uterine ruptures caused by previous cesarean section was significantly reduced in the late group. Of the 10 patients with non-scarred uterine rupture, 3 (30%) occurred during delivery and 7 (70%) were spontaneous. Among the 37 complete rupture patients, 3 (8.1%) died of uterine scar rupture, 19 (51.3%) cases were reported with fetal/newborn deaths, 5 (13.5%) cases underwent hysterectomy and the rest were treated with uterine repair.

CONCLUSION

Complete uterine rupture often has catastrophic effect on pregnancy outcomes. Obstetrics doctors should be vigilant to identify the risk factors and clinical presentations of uterine rupture during pregnancy. Strict prenatal management is beneficial to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Hysteroscopy-assisted laparoscopic salpingectomy for interstitial pregnancy without cornual resection

OBJECTIVE

To illustrate a novel surgical management technique for interstitial ectopic pregnancies (IP).

DESIGN

Video description of the case, demonstration of the surgical technique, reevaluation at the 6-week postoperative follow-up, and review of the advantages of this surgical technique for IP.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

PATIENT(S)

A 42-year-old gravida 2 para 1-0-0-1, underwent a successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle with a single embryo transfer and had an early ultrasound diagnosis of IP with cardiac activity. After failed medical management with a single dose of methotrexate, she was referred to us for surgical management. Transvaginal ultrasound revealed fluid in the cul-de-sac and confirmed a right interstitial ectopic pregnancy with an estimated gestational age of 6 weeks. The myometrium at the periphery of the implantation site was 1-1.5 mm, and the "interstitial line sign" was seen. After counseling for possible treatment modalities, the patient opted for surgical management, planning for further IVF treatment. Her preoperative β-human chorionic gonadotropin level (β-hCG) was 3241 IU/L. Her surgical history was significant for a previous myomectomy via laparotomy and an elective lower transverse C-section.

INTERVENTION(S)

Hysteroscopy assisted by multipuncture video laparoscopy surgery was performed. Hysteroscopic resection was not feasible as the ectopic was not visualized as described previously. Using normal saline as the distension media and with the hysteroscope aimed at the right ostium, the hydrostatic pressure was increased transiently to dissect the ectopic pregnancy and facilitate the next surgical step. Laparoscopically, the ectopic pregnancy was milked with atraumatic graspers and mobilized from the cornua into the tube creating enough proximal length for salpingectomy. Right salpingectomy was achieved using high-frequency bipolar with no complications.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Hysteroscopy-assisted laparoscopy technique allows for several advantages, including a short operative time and minimal blood loss. No sutures were required and the myometrial architecture was left undisrupted.

RESULT(S)

The postoperative course was uncomplicated, and the patient was discharged on the same day of surgery. The patient's β-hCG level dropped from 3,241 to 139 IU/L after 48 hours. Two weeks later, the β-hCG level was 3 IU/L. A follow-up ultrasound was performed six weeks postoperatively confirming the integrity of the myometrium without defects and proportional wall thickness on both sides. The patient was referred back to her infertility specialist to resume IVF treatment with no remarkable delay.

CONCLUSION(S)

In select cases and the presence of a proficient laparoscopic surgeon, early diagnosed IP can be removed safely using the described novel technique. While an interval conception of 3-6 months is recommended after conventional surgical procedures for IP, this technique can be comparable to salpingectomy.

Threatened uterine rupture following laparoscopic surgery in interstitial tubal pregnancy

Contraception is recommended for a certain period following a hysterotomy; however, no consensus exists on the required duration of contraception. A 21-year-old female was brought to the emergency room in a state of shock due to intraperitoneal bleeding. An emergency laparoscopic cornuostomy indicated for ruptured interstitial pregnancy was performed. Despite contraception, the patient got pregnant 1.5 months after surgery. At 16 weeks of gestation, threatened uterine rupture was suspected, as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hematogenous amniotic fluid and a subchorionic hematoma near the interstitial portion of the fallopian tube. An MRI at 21 weeks showed hematoma shrinkage and disappearance of the hematogenous amniotic fluid. At 37 weeks, an elective cesarean section was performed, which resulted in a live birth. Pregnancy shortly after surgery is a risk factor for uterine rupture. In such cases, MRI could be useful in the evaluation of threatened uterine ruptures.

Establishment of predictive model for analyzing clinical pregnancy outcome based on IVF-ET and ICSI assisted reproductive technology

In order to explore the predictive model for analyzing clinical pregnancy outcomes based on IVF-ET (in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer) and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection) assisted reproductive technology (ART). Methods: this study selected the embryo transfer (fresh) patients who received IVF-ET or ICSI treatment in the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University as the subjects. Moreover, the controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) and follow-up were conducted to collect relevant data for analysis, and finally a prediction model was established. Results: The results showed that the patients were divided into different ovarian response groups at first. The age, bFSH and bFSH/bLH were the highest in the poor ovarian response group (POR), followed by the normal ovarian response group (NOR) and the lowest in the high ovarian response group (HOR). The area under the ROC curve was 0.669 according to the predictive model of pregnancy-related factors. The confidence interval of 94% was 0.629–0.697, with statistical significance (P = 0.000, P < 0.01). Conclusion: it can be concluded that in clinical pregnancy, for many related factors, regression equation can be used to establish a prediction model to diagnose the success rate of pregnancy. In conclusion, a prediction model can be built based on the relevant experimental results, to provide experimental reference ideas for increasing the success rate of ART in late clinical pregnancy, which is of great research significance.

Spontaneous rupture of unscarred uterus in the third trimester after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer because of bilateral salpingectomy: A case report

RATIONALE

Rupture of an unscarred uterus after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) in a primiparous woman is rare. Assisted reproductive technology (ART)-induced rupture of an unscarred uterus is usually attributable to increased dizygotic twinning rates. Salpingectomy can result in cornual scarring and increase the risk of uterine rupture as well as the mortality rate in a subsequent ectopic pregnancy. Here, we present the first reported case of a spontaneous, third-trimester, uterine rupture in a primiparous woman after IVF-ET due to a history of bilateral salpingectomy because of bilateral oviduct and ovarian cysts; the patient did not have an ectopic pregnancy or any cornual or other uterine scarring during this pregnancy after IVF-ET.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 24-year-old woman with a history of IVF-ET and bilateral salpingectomy was admitted to our hospital with unexplained acute upper abdominal pain during the third trimester.

DIAGNOSIS

The fetal heart rate was abnormal. Abdominal ultrasonography was negative. Computed tomography revealed a small amount of abdominal and pericardial effusion. Laboratory tests revealed increased white blood cells. A diagnosis of pregnancy complicated by acute abdomen was considered. Emergent exploratory laparotomy revealed a uterine rupture at the right fundus adjacent to the right cornual area.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient was successfully managed with simultaneous exploratory laparotomy and lower-segment cesarean section. The rupture site was repaired.

OUTCOMES

Two live infants were uneventfully delivered. Follow-up assessments of the mother and the female baby on the 42nd postpartum day yielded normal results. The male infant was diagnosed with left hydronephrosis and required an operation.

LESSONS

We conclude that the ART-associated increase in dizygotic twinning rates may be a neglected risk factor for spontaneous rupture of the unscarred uterus, especially in patients who have undergone salpingectomy. Uterine rupture should be considered in a patient with multiple pregnancy following IVF-ET who presents with acute abdominal pain and abnormal fetal heart rate. Timely exploratory laparotomy is the key to a good prognosis.

Interstitial Pregnancy after Ipsilateral Salpingectomy: Analysis of 46 Cases and a Literature Review

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between previous ipsilateral salpingectomy and interstitial pregnancy and report on our experience of laparoscopic cornuostomy for interstitial pregnancy.

DESIGN

Single-center, retrospective review.

SETTING

University-based hospital.

PATIENTS

All patients who had undergone ipsilateral salpingectomy previously, diagnosed with interstitial pregnancy and treated between July 2010 and September 2018.

INTERVENTIONS

Laparoscopy or laparotomy as a treatment for interstitial pregnancy after ipsilateral salpingectomy.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 414 cases of interstitial pregnancy were identified, of which 46 (11.1%) were after ipsilateral salpingectomy. Of the 46 patients, 20 (43.5%) became pregnant by in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Ipsilateral salpingectomy was the result of an ectopic pregnancy in 40 patients, hydrosalpinx in 5 patients, and torsion of an ovarian tumor in 1 patient. The laparoscopic approach was used to treat 78.3% of patients with history of previous salpingectomy. Patients who underwent ipsilateral salpingectomy by laparoscopy previously had a shorter interval from salpingectomy to interstitial pregnancy (24 months vs 60 months; p = .038) compared with patients who underwent ipsilateral salpingectomy by laparotomy. Laparoscopic cornuostomy was performed in 38 patients (82.6%); 12 had fetal cardiac activity, 15 had ruptured masses, and 16 used prophylactic methotrexate (MTX) intraoperatively. The median size of the ectopic mass was 2.5 cm (1.0-5.0 cm). At the time of laparoscopic cornuostomy, more patients with interstitial pregnancies with intact ectopic masses were administered prophylactic MTX (81.3% vs 45.5%; p = .043). Only 1 patient with a ruptured ectopic mass, high preoperative human chorionic gonadotropin levels, and without prophylactic MTX administration experienced a persistent ectopic pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a history of ipsilateral salpingectomy should be cautioned regarding the possibility of interstitial pregnancy. Laparoscopic cornuostomy appears to be an appropriate treatment for interstitial pregnancy in patients wishing to preserve fertility, and the use of concomitant prophylactic MTX may reduce the risk of persistent ectopic pregnancy, especially in patients with ruptured masses and high human chorionic gonadotropin levels.

Hydrosalpinx - Salpingostomy, salpingectomy or tubal occlusion

Tubal factors account for approximately 25% of cases of infertility, and the most severe manifestation of tubal disease is hydrosalpinx, accounting for 10-30% of tubal diseases. Hydrosalpinx is a distension or dilatation of the fallopian tube in the presence of a distal tubal occlusion, and the most common cause is pelvic inflammatory disease. Women with hydrosalpinges have lower implantation and pregnancy rates in assisted reproductive technology (ART), due to a combination of mechanical and chemical factors thought to disrupt the endometrial environment. Current guidance is removal of the tube by salpingectomy (preferably laparoscopically) before IVF treatment. Salpingostomy, or distal tubal plastic surgery in the management of hydrosalpinx, is an alternative for women desiring natural conception, although ectopic pregnancy rates as high as 10% have been reported. Proximal tubal occlusion with Essure^® devices placed hysteroscopically can be considered particularly in cases of distorted pelvic anatomy or pelvic adhesions making abdominal surgery complex. However, low clinical pregnancy and live birth rates have been reported with the use of these devices before IVF. In this review, we discuss salpingostomy, salpingectomy and tubal occlusion as possible management options for the reproductive women with hydrosalpinx.

Laparoscopic treatment of cornual heterotopic pregnancy: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To report on our experience of laparoscopic cornuostomy or cornual repair for cornual heterotopic pregnancy.

STUDY DESIGN

A single center, retrospective review of patients who were diagnosed as cornual heterotopic pregnancy, which developed after in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF/ET) between January 2009 and June 2014. All patients were managed by laparoscopic cornuostomy or cornual repair.

RESULTS

14 patients were enrolled and 4 patients were finally confirmed to have a ruptured cornu. 4/4 presented as acute abdominal pain and 3/4 as metrorrhagia. The blood pressure of all the patients were stable. The earliest ruptured patient of this series happened at 23 days after IVF/ET. The hemoglobin levels of the 4 ruptured patients were significantly lower than the other patients (8.6 ± 1.8 g/dl versus 12.2 ± 1.1 g/dl, p < 0.001). Internal bleeding before operation was significantly higher in the ruptured patients than in the intact patients (1050.0 ± 369.8 ml versus 0.0 ± 0.0 ml, p < 0.001). All 14 patients were managed by laparoscopic cornuostomy or cornual repair. No one was converted to laparotomy. Post-operation pregnancy was uneventful. All neonates were delivered by cesarean section with no evident complications.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic cornuostomy or cornual repair appears to be an effective treatment for cornual heterotopic pregnancy, even in ruptured ones. These operations can be safely performed in an institution with well-trained gynecological laparoscopists with experienced support teams.

Cornual Suture at the Time of Laparoscopic Salpingectomy Reduces the Incidence of Interstitial Pregnancy after In Vitro Fertilization

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of cornual suture at the time of laparoscopic salpingectomy on the incidence of interstitial pregnancy (IP) after in vitro fertilization (IVF).

DESIGN

Single-center, retrospective review (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients with hydrosalpinx who were treated with salpingectomy before IVF-embryo transfer and managed in our center were included in this study.

INTERVENTIONS

A total of 542 patients who underwent laparoscopic salpingectomy from April 2011 to March 2014 comprised group A. A total of 502 patients who underwent cornual suture at the time of laparoscopic salpingectomy from April 2014 to February 2016 comprised group B.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The overall IP rate was significantly lower in group B (7/293, 2.39%) than in group A (27/373, 7.24%; p < .05). The intrauterine pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy/live birth rates were significantly higher in group B than in group A (both p < .05). All 34 patients with IP underwent laparoscopic cornuostomy and cornual repair. Seven of 11 patients with combined interstitial and intrauterine pregnancies carried the intrauterine pregnancy to term and delivered via cesarean section, whereas 4 patients underwent inevitable miscarriage. IP rupture occurred in 8 of 34 patients at a mean of 23.43 ± 2.77 days after embryo transfer. The earliest time of rupture was on day 20 after embryo transfer.

CONCLUSION

An optimized salpingectomy technique plays an important role in pretreatment before embryo transfer in patients with hydrosalpinx. Cornual suture at the time of salpingectomy helps reduce the risk of IP.

Successful treatment of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in the uterine cornus with laparoscopic cornuostomy and postoperative methotrexate injection

OBJECTIVE

Management of cornual gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) has never been reported. Here, we describe the first case of cornual GTN.

CASE REPORT

A 32-year-old woman was diagnosed with left cornual GTN after evacuation of a complete mole. Laparoscopic cornuostomy was performed with intramural vasopression injection and barbed sutures. Histopathology revealed hydropic chorionic villi. Complete hydatidiform mole was diagnosed, and treated with adjuvant methotrexate, to address the poor decline of β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels during follow-up. The β- human chorionic gonadotropin levels declined to < 1 mIU/mL 9 months after cornuostomy. She successfully conceived 16 months after cornuostomy, and underwent cesarean section at 37 gestational weeks due to concomitant severe preeclampsia.

CONCLUSION

Cornual GTN can be successfully managed with laparoscopic cornuostomy and adjuvant methotrexate.

Diagnosis and Management of 'Cornual' Pregnancies from 2002 to 2015 at a Tertiary Referral Centre in South India: Insights from Introspection

Purpose

Interstitial, angular and rudimentary horn pregnancies have all been referred to as cornual pregnancies despite definite diagnostic criteria. Angular pregnancies can be followed up expectantly under close surveillance while interstitial and rudimentary horn pregnancies are terminated by medical or surgical methods. This study aimed to assess accuracy of ultrasound in the diagnosis of 'cornual pregnancy' and evaluate management.

Methods

Data pertaining to clinical features, ultrasound findings and treatment modalities of the aforementioned conditions between January 2002 and December 2015 at a tertiary perinatal centre were retrieved from the medical records. The ultrasound images and surgical videos were reviewed by the authors.

Results

Of 62 cases, 35 were interstitial, 26 were angular/eccentric intrauterine, and 1 was a rudimentary horn pregnancy. The accuracy of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of interstitial and angular pregnancies was 71.0 and 46.8%, respectively. Medical management was successful in 33.3% of interstitial pregnancies. Fifteen women with interstitial pregnancy had subsequent pregnancies and nine (75.0%) were Caesarean deliveries. Rupture and recurrence rates of interstitial pregnancy were 34.2 and 2.9%, respectively. The rudimentary horn pregnancy was managed by laparoscopic excision followed by a subsequent term delivery.

Conclusion

This study identified frequent occurrences of imprecise nomenclature that resulted in mismanagement of a few potentially viable angular pregnancies. It is imperative for clinicians and sonologists to use unambiguous nomenclature and avoid the term 'cornual pregnancy' altogether.

Unilateral Salpingectomy and Methotrexate Are Associated With a Similar Recurrence Rate of Ectopic Pregnancy in Patients Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine whether different treatment approaches of ectopic pregnancy (EP), particularly unilateral salpingectomy and methotrexate, affect its recurrence rate in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF).

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

SETTING

An academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Patients with a history of a previous EP who achieved pregnancy after IVF cycles between January 2004 and August 2015 were included. The recurrence rate of EP was compared between patients who underwent different treatment approaches for a previous EP.

INTERVENTIONS

IVF.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 594 patients were included. Seventeen patients had a recurrence of EP (2.9%). Patients with a history of ≥2 EPs were associated with a significantly higher recurrence rate of EP than those with 1 previous EP (8.5% vs. 1.8%; p = .01; odds ratio [OR] = 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-4.4). Patients who underwent unilateral salpingectomy (n = 245) had a comparable recurrence rate of EP after IVF with those who received methotrexate (n = 283) (3.6% vs. 2.8%; p = .5; OR = 1.3; 95% CI, 0.4-3.4). This OR remained unchanged after adjusting for patient's age, number of previous EPs, number of transferred embryos, and peak estradiol level during stimulation (adjusted OR = 1.4; 95% CI, 0.5-3.8). None of the patients who underwent bilateral salpingectomy (n = 45) or salpingostomy (n = 21) had a recurrence of EP after IVF.

CONCLUSION

The recurrence rate of EP significantly correlates with the number of previous EPs. Treatment of EP with methotrexate has a comparable recurrence rate of EP after IVF with unilateral salpingectomy. Therefore, the risk of recurrence should not be a reason to favor salpingectomy over methotrexate in this population.