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Karavani G, Herzberg S, Schachter-Safrai N, Chill HH, Ben-Meir A, Simon A. Do vitrified frozen-thawed embryos generated from successful fresh cycles have higher potential for favorable outcome? Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2021; 73:632-637. [PMID: 34751530 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04759-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many variables, including woman's age, embryo quality and endometrial receptivity, influence the success rate of either fresh embryo transfer (ET) or frozen-thawed ET (FT-ET) cycles. This study aims to examine whether the results of a fresh in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle correlate with its frozen-thawed embryos transfer outcomes. METHODS A retrospective cohort study conducted in a tertiary medical center single IVF unit between 2014-2017. The study population was comprised of women who underwent fresh ET with the remaining embryos frozen using vitrification and at least one consecutive FT-ET cycle. Comparison of FT-ET cycle's details and outcomes were assessed in relation to the outcome of preceding fresh ET cycle. RESULTS A total of 599 women underwent fresh ET and at least one consecutive FT-ET cycle. Significantly higher rates of successful FT-ET cycle outcomes were observed in the group of patients with a successful fresh cycle compared to the group with an unsuccessful fresh cycle (48.9% vs. 20.8%, P<0.001). Logistic regression demonstrated an adjusted OR of 5.02 for successful FT-ET after a successful fresh cycle. CONCLUSIONS Frozen-thawed embryos generated from successful fresh IVF cycles have higher potential to implant when compared to frozen-thawed embryos obtained in an unsuccessful fresh cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilad Karavani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel -
| | - Shmuel Herzberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Natali Schachter-Safrai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Henry H Chill
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Assaf Ben-Meir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.,Unit of Infertility and IVF, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Alex Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.,Unit of Infertility and IVF, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
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Levi Setti PE, Cirillo F, Morenghi E, Immediata V, Caccavari V, Baggiani A, Albani E, Patrizio P. One step further: randomised single-centre trial comparing the direct and afterload techniques of embryo transfer. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2484-2492. [PMID: 34323282 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the differences in ease of use between two different embryo transfer (ET) techniques: the preload direct approach and the afterload approach. SUMMARY ANSWER The afterload technique seems to reduce the rate of difficult ETs. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Numerous published trials now document that the ET procedure has an impact on pregnancy and delivery rates after IVF. Difficult transfers should be avoided, as they reduce implantation and pregnancy rates. Preload direct ETs with soft catheters under ultrasound guidance is currently considered the best procedure. However, when using soft catheters, it is not known which technique is preferable or which one should be implemented to reduce the operator factor. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective randomised unblinded controlled clinical trial, included 352 ultrasound-guided ETs assigned to either direct ET or afterload ET, between September 2017 and March 2019. The sample size was calculated based on the historical rate of difficult ETs encountered between 2014 and 2015 with a direct ET procedure. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The inclusion criteria were women 18-38 years old, with BMI between 18 and 28, receiving a single-thawed blastocyst transfer. The exclusion criteria were use of testicular sperm and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) cycles. The primary outcome was the rate of difficult or suboptimal transfers defined as: advancement of the outer sheath (specific for the direct transfer), multiple attempts, use of force, required manipulation, use of a stylet or tenaculum, dilatation, or use of a different catheter. The secondary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 352 frozen ETs were randomised, with 176 patients in each group. The two arms were homogeneous for female and male age, female BMI, duration of infertility, secondary infertility, previous deliveries or miscarriages, myomas, previous surgery to the uterine cavity, cycle day at ovulation trigger, freeze all cycles, first transfers, indication for treatment, endometrial preparation protocol and duration, endometrial thickness, and blastocyst grade at vitrification. Across the entire population, 85 (24.1%) ETs were defined as difficult. The rate of difficult transfers was significantly higher in the direct ET group than in the afterload group: 68 (38.6%) versus 17 (9.7%), respectively (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.09-0.30, P < 0.001). The mean percentage in the rate of difficult transfers per operator was 22.5% (SD ± 14.5%), of which 36.1% (SD ± 23.4%) were in the direct group compared with 8.6% (± 8.2%) in the afterload group (P < 0.001). The difficult transfer rate among operators varied from 0 to 43.8% (0-77.8% in the direct group and 0 to 25.0% in the afterload group). The clinical pregnancy rates (42.0% vs 48.3%, P = 0.239 in the direct and afterload groups, respectively) were not significantly different between the groups. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION There were 18 experienced operators who participated in the trial. Conclusions about the pregnancy rate should not be generalised, since the sample analysis was not performed on this outcome and, although clinically relevant, the difference was not significantly different. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The rate of difficult transfers was significantly higher in the direct ET group compared with the afterload ET group, although a wide variation was observed among operators. Further studies regarding the association between transfer technique and ART outcomes are required. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No specific funding was sought and there are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03161119. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 5 April 2017. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT 26 September 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- P E Levi Setti
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - F Cirillo
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Morenghi
- Biostatistics Unit, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - V Immediata
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - V Caccavari
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.,Division of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology, Istituto Clinico Città Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - A Baggiani
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Albani
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - P Patrizio
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Öztürk İnal Z, İnal HA. The effect of embryo transfer technique on pregnancy rates in in vitro fertilization-intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles: A prospective cohort study. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 18:30-36. [PMID: 33715330 PMCID: PMC7962166 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.galenos.2021.03073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate whether embryo transfer affects pregnancy rates in in vitro fertilization-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI) treatment. Materials and Methods: A total of 2,257 patients who underwent IVF-ICSI treatment between 2012 and 2017 were included in this study. Subjects were categorized according to the embryo transfer technique that was required: group 1 (n=1,657) underwent easy transfer with a soft catheter; group 2 (n=548) received external guidance transfers; and group 3 (n=52) experienced difficult transfers with a stylet. Basal parameters, clinical and laboratory IVF-ICSI outcomes, and clinical pregnancy rates (CPR) were compared between the groups. Results: There were no differences between the groups in terms of age, body mass index, smoking status, duration and etiology of infertility, baseline folliclestimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol (E2), thyroid-stimulating hormone, prolactin levels, antral follicle count, duration of stimulation, stimulation protocol, total gonadotropin dose required, peak E2 levels, progesterone levels, and endometrial thickness on human chorionic gonadotropin administration and transfer days (p>0.05). The numbers of oocytes retrieved, MII and 2PN, fertilization rate, day of embryo transfer, and CPRs were also comparable between the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: Our data suggest that embryo transfer has no impact on pregnancy rates in patients who undergo IVF-ICSI treatment. Further studies with more participants are required to elucidate this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Öztürk İnal
- Konya Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Reproductive Endocrinology, Konya, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ali İnal
- Konya Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Reproductive Endocrinology, Konya, Turkey
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Ghanem ME, Bedairy MH, Shaaban A, Albahlol IA. Does the Time of Starting Progesterone Luteal Support Affect Embryo Transfer in Long Agonist Protocol Downregulated ICSI Cycles? A Randomized Controlled Trial. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:897-903. [PMID: 32909190 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00309-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare the effects of starting progesterone (P4) luteal support (LS) on day of egg retrieval (ER) or day of embryo transfer (ET) on the ratio of difficult ET and cycle outcome. This was a RCT ( ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03040830) carried out at Mansoura Integrated Fertility Center (MIFC), Mansoura, Egypt, from November 2015 to January 2017. A total of 171 eligible long agonist ICSI cases were randomly allocated on day of ER into group A (86) starting LS as daily IM 100 mg P4 on day of ER and group B (85) starting P4-LS on day of ET. Difficult ET was defined as blood on ET catheter and/or sounding or dilating the cervix. Primary outcome was the overall ratio of difficult ET and ratios on day 3 and 5 ET. Secondary outcome was the ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) and implantation rate (IR). The results are presented as % for groups A and B respectively: overall difficult ET (44.1, 24.7) (p = 0.009); day 3 difficult ET (23.2, 24.4) (p = 0.45); day 5 difficult ET (62.7, 25.6) (p = 0.001); overall OPR (38.3, 44.7) (p = 0.43); day 3 ET OPR (41.8, 33.3) (p = 0.51); day 5 ET OPR (34.8, 57.5) (p = 0.048); overall IR (20.0, 22.5) (p = 0.62); day 3 ET IR (17.8, 13.4) (p = 0.44); day 5 ET IR (22, 34.1) (p = 0.09). In conclusion, starting P4 luteal support on egg retrieval day is associated with significantly higher ratio of difficult embryo transfer and lower ongoing pregnancy rate and tendency to lower IR in day 5 ET, so starting P4-LS on day of ET is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Ghanem
- Mansoura Integrated Fertility Centre (MIFC), Mansoura, Egypt
| | - M H Bedairy
- Mansoura Integrated Fertility Centre (MIFC), Mansoura, Egypt.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - A Shaaban
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim A Albahlol
- Mansoura Integrated Fertility Centre (MIFC), Mansoura, Egypt. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia.
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Plowden TC, Hill MJ, Miles SM, Hoyt B, Yauger B, Segars JH, Csokmay JM, Chason RJ. Does the Presence of Blood in the Catheter or the Degree of Difficulty of Embryo Transfer Affect Live Birth? Reprod Sci 2016; 24:726-730. [PMID: 27655772 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116667607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The technique used for embryo transfer (ET) can affect implantation. Prior research that evaluated the effect of postprocedural blood of the transfer catheter tip have yielded mixed results, and it is unclear whether this is actually a marker of difficulty of the transfer. Our objective was to estimate the effect of blood at the time of ET and the difficulty of ET on live birth rates (LBR). This retrospective cohort study utilized generalized estimating equations (GEEs) with nesting for repeated cycles for all analyses. Univariate modeling was performed and a final multivariate (adjusted) GEE model accounted for all significant confounders. Embryo transfers were subjectively graded (easy, medium, or hard) by a physician at the time of transfer. The presence of blood at ET was associated with more difficult ETs, retained embryos, and presence of mucous in the catheter. In the univariate analysis, ET with blood was not associated with live birth, while the degree of difficulty for ET had a negative impact on LBR. In the final multivariate GEE model, which accounts for repeated cycles from a patient, the only factors associated with an increased LBR were the degree of difficulty of the ET, female age, and blastocyst transfer. After controlling for confounding variables, the presence of blood in the transfer catheter was not associated with the likelihood of pregnancy and thus was not an independent predictor of cycle outcome. This indicates that the difficulty of the transfer itself was a strong negative predictor of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torie C Plowden
- 1 Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Micah J Hill
- 1 Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shana M Miles
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Belinda Yauger
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James H Segars
- 4 Johns Hopkins Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John M Csokmay
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca J Chason
- 2 Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Difficult embryo transfer (ET) components and cycle outcome. Which is more harmful? MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2015.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Meta-analysis revealed that embryo placement 20 mm from the fundal endometrial surface resulted in higher pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, and live birth rate compared with placement 10 mm from the fundal endometrial surface. Pregnancy and implantation rates according to relative position were higher when the catheter tip was positioned close to the middle of the endometrial cavity. The aim of the current study is to evaluate differences in implantation and pregnancy rates if the site of embryo transfer is 2 cm distance from the fundal endometrium (DFE) compared to the midpoint of the endometrial cavity length (ECL). METHODS Patients were randomized to one of two groups: in group A (n = 98, 98 IVF-ET cycles), the embryo transfer catheter tip was positioned 2 cm DFE, while that in group B (n = 97, 97 IVF-ET cycles) was positioned at the midpoint of the ECL. We compared pregnancy outcomes of implantation rate, chemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, ectopic pregnancy rate, and miscarriage rate in the two groups. RESULTS Analysis of implantation rate (19.5 ± 27.7 vs. 21.7 ± 32.6; p = 0.6), chemical pregnancy rate (51 % vs. 50.5 %; p = 0.94), clinical pregnancy rate (35.7 % vs. 38.1 %; p = 0.73), ongoing pregnancy rate (31.6 % vs. 30.9 %; p = 0.92), ectopic pregnancy rate (8.6 % vs. 2.7 %; p = 0.35), and miscarriage rate (11.4 % vs. 16.2 %; 0.74) revealed comparable results for both groups. CONCLUSIONS Implantation and pregnancy rates were not influenced by the site of the ET catheter tip being 2 cm DFE compared to at the midpoint of the ECL. ISRCTN ISRCTN15972342.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwang Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center of Bundang CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea.
- College of Medicine, CHA University and CHA Fertility Center of Bundang CHA General Hospital, 351 Yatap-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, 463-712, Korea.
| | - Dong-Hee Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Fertility Center of Bundang CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea.
| | - Eun-Kyung Kim
- CHA Fertility Center of Bundang CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea.
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Listijono DR, Boylan T, Cooke S, Kilani S, Chapman MG. An analysis of the impact of embryo transfer difficulty on live birth rates, using a standardised grading system. HUM FERTIL 2013; 16:211-4. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2013.804956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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9
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Difficult embryo transfers or blood on catheter and assisted reproductive outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2013; 168:121-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2012.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Revised: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 12/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Yılmaz N, Oruç AS, Zeyrek T, Görkem U, Inal HA, Engin-Üstün Y, Gülerman C. Effect of the afterloaded external guidance embryo transfer technique on pregnancy rates in single embryo transfer cycles. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2013; 14:153-6. [PMID: 24592095 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2013.49225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate effect of the afterloaded external guidance embryo transfer technique on pregnancy rates in single embryo transfer intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study was performed at the Dr. Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital. Three hundred and thirteen women who underwent ICSI were included in the study. Subjects were categorized according to the embryo transfer technique; Group 1 (n: 232): easy transfer with a soft catheter, Group 2 (n: 45): after external guidance transfer, and Group 3 (n: 36): difficult transfer with a stylet. Basal parameters, clinical and laboratory IVF outcomes and pregnancy rates were studied. RESULTS Infertility etiology, basal follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, antral follicle count, duration of stimulation, total dose of gonadotropin, peak estradiol levels, endometrial thickness, oocyte number, 2 PN, and fertilization rate were similar between the three groups (p>0.05). Despite the decreased pregnancy rate in Group 3, there were no differences in clinical pregnancy rates among the groups (p=0.204). CONCLUSION Embryo transfer is one of the critical steps in assisted reproduction procedures. Using the afterloaded external guidance embryo transfer technique did not improve pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafiye Yılmaz
- IVF Department, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayla Sargın Oruç
- IVF Department, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tugba Zeyrek
- Department of Embryology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Umit Görkem
- IVF Department, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ali Inal
- IVF Department, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yaprak Engin-Üstün
- IVF Department, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cavidan Gülerman
- IVF Department, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Singh N, Gupta P, Mittal S, Malhotra N. Correlation of technical difficulty during embryo transfer with rate of clinical pregnancy. J Hum Reprod Sci 2012; 5:258-61. [PMID: 23531644 PMCID: PMC3604832 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.106337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2011] [Revised: 11/17/2011] [Accepted: 06/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To correlate the ease or difficulty of embryo transfer and blood at catheter tip with pregnancy rate when embryo transfer (ET) was performed by the same operator using soft catheter. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective analysis of 342 patients who underwent in vitro fertilization or ICSI cycle from January 2008 to December 2010 in a single centre was done. The type of transfer was divided into two groups: 'easy' or 'difficult'. Transfer was considered difficult when additional instrumentation was required or firmer catheter was used or required changing of catheter. Patients undergoing cryo-preserved ET were excluded from the study. RESULTS On the day of transfer in 284 (83%) patients, ET was easy and difficulty was encountered in 58 (17%) patients. Blood at catheter was seen in 101 (29.53%) patients. In the group of 58 difficult transfers, 10 pregnancies resulted with a clinical pregnancy rate of 17.2%, while 67 pregnancies resulted in 284 cycles of easy transfer with clinical pregnancy rate of 23.6% (P value = 0.045). While no significant difference was seen in pregnancies with blood on outer catheter and blood less transfer, there was significant reduction in pregnancy rate when blood was present on catheter tip compared to bloodless transfer (13.3% v/s 24.1; P value = 0.032). CONCLUSION Reduction in clinical pregnancy rate is seen with difficult ETs, more when blood is present at the catheter tip.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeta Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prerna Gupta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Suneeta Mittal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neena Malhotra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Kondapalli LA, Molinaro TA, Sammel MD, Dokras A. A decrease in serum estradiol levels after human chorionic gonadotrophin administration predicts significantly lower clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in in vitro fertilization cycles. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2690-7. [PMID: 22752608 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although close observation of serum estradiol (E2) levels remains a mainstay of assessing clinical response to controlled ovarian stimulation, the prognostic value of any change in E2 levels after administration of hCG remains unclear. The objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between serum E2 response after hCG administration and the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in fresh IVF cycles. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women aged 21-45 years undergoing their first IVF cycle from 1999 to 2008 at a single practice. We compared the post-hCG serum E2 level with values on the day of hCG trigger. IVF cycles were stratified by post-hCG E2 response and appropriate parametric and non-parametric statistics were performed. Clinical intrauterine pregnancy and live births were the primary outcomes of interest. Multivariable logistic regression models were created to identify predictive factors associated with outcomes while adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS Among the 1712 IVF cycles, 1065 exhibited a >10% increase (Group A), 525 had a plateau (± 10%, Group B) and 122 showed a >10% decrease (Group C) in post-hCG E2 levels. While the E2 levels on the day of hCG were similar across groups, Group C had more patients with diminished ovarian reserve, required higher gonadotrophin doses and had the lowest implantation rates. After adjusting for age, total gonadotrophin dose, infertility diagnosis, number of oocytes and number of transferred embryos, the associations between post-hCG E2 decline (Group C) and clinical pregnancy [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.33-0.84, P= 0.007] and live birth (aOR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.22-0.71, P= 0.002) were significant. We also found significant associations between E2 plateau (Group B) and clinical pregnancy (aOR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.57-0.94, P= 0.013) and live birth (aOR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.56-0.97, P= 0.032) when adjusting for the same factors. CONCLUSIONS In our study, >10% decrease in E2 levels after hCG administration was associated with 40-50% reduction in clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Similarly, post-hCG E2 plateau (± 10%) lowered the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates by >25%. Our study suggests that the change in the post-hCG E2 level is another parameter that can be used by clinicians to counsel patients regarding their likelihood of success with assisted reproductive technologies prior to oocyte retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Kondapalli
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Mains L, Van Voorhis BJ. Optimizing the technique of embryo transfer. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:785-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Boone WR, Higdon HL, Johnson JE. Quality Management Issues in the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1177/205891581000100103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) of 1988 describes requirements and guidelines for implementing a quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) program for moderate and high complexity laboratories. These requirements and guidelines apply to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laboratories as well. The general topic of QC and QA as it pertains to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET) is extensively reviewed. This review summarizes many of the QC and QA events that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this biotechnological field. These events include control of the culture environment inside and outside of the incubator, as well as factors that affect culture media. This review also discusses, in considerable detail, the QC and the QA that pertain to equipment used within the laboratory and how to control for potential contaminants, which reside within the laboratory. This review provides evidence to indicate the need for laboratory personnel to monitor quality improvement issues on a continuous basis. Personnel must be willing to change as improvements in technology occur in order to meet the ever-evolving demands of a more difficult patient population. Suggestions for meeting these demands are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R. Boone
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - H. Lee Higdon
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - Jane E. Johnson
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
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15
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Hysteroscopic evaluation of endocervical and endometrial lesions observed after different procedures of embryo transfer: a prospective comparative study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2009; 147:183-6. [PMID: 19740588 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2009.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2009] [Revised: 07/23/2009] [Accepted: 08/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endocervical and endometrial damage observed after different procedures of embryo transfer (ET) were investigated using diagnostic hysteroscopy. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, descriptive and comparative study, in an Infertility centre, University Hospital. Hundred consecutive infertile patients with a normal uterine cavity, included in an IVF program, were enrolled between May 1st, 2006 and April 30th, 2007. All the patients had a diagnostic hysteroscopy immediately after trial ET using soft ET catheters: (i) IVF Sydney Set (Cook, Limerick, Ireland) (n=27), (ii) Elliocath (Ellios, Paris, France) (n=34), (iii) Frydman classic 4.5 (CCD, Paris, France) (n=19), and rigid ET catheters: Memory Frydman 4.5 (CCD, Paris, France) (n=20). All the procedures were recorded and blindly reviewed. Data were analyzed using a Kruskal-Wallis test for age and severity of endometrial lesions, or Fisher's exact test for binary criteria. RESULTS Endocervical lesions were more frequently encountered in the soft (63%) and rigid (85%) Frydman's catheter groups compared to other groups (Elliocath: 29%, IVF Sydney Set: 26%; p<0.0001). Presence of blood on the catheter, and endometrial lesions were significantly less frequent in soft catheter groups compared to the rigid catheter group (p<0.0001). Severe endometrial lesions were less frequently observed when soft catheters were used (85%, 53%, 32%, 11% for Memory Frydman, Frydman classic, Elliocath and IVF Sydney Set, respectively; p<0.0001). The presence of blood on the catheter signed severe endometrial lesions. CONCLUSION All ET catheters can lead to endocervical and endometrial damage. Severe endometrial lesions were less frequent when soft catheters were used.
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Ozkan S, Murk W, Arici A. Endometriosis and infertility: epidemiology and evidence-based treatments. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2008; 1127:92-100. [PMID: 18443335 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1434.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disorder defined as the presence of endometrial tissue outside of the uterine cavity. A leading cause of infertility, endometriosis has a prevalence of 0.5-5% in fertile and 25-40% in infertile women. The optimal choice of management for endometriosis-associated infertility remains obscure. Removal or suppression of endometrial deposits by medical or surgical means constitutes the basis of endometriosis management. Current evidence indicates that suppressive medical treatment of endometriosis does not benefit fertility and should not be used for this indication alone. Surgery is probably efficacious for all stages of the disease. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with intrauterine insemination is recommended in early-stage and surgically corrected endometriosis when pelvic anatomy is normal. In advanced cases, in vitro fertilization is a treatment of choice, and its success may be augmented with prolonged gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog treatment. Further randomized clinical trials focusing on diverse etiopathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic innovation are necessary to find more conclusive, evidence-based answers regarding this enigmatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebiha Ozkan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kocaeli University School of Mediine, Kocaeli, Turkey
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17
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Optimizing the number of cleavage stage embryos to transfer on day 3 in women 38 years of age and older: a Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology database study. Fertil Steril 2008; 91:767-76. [PMID: 18321489 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.12.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2007] [Revised: 12/12/2007] [Accepted: 12/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the optimal number of day 3 embryos to transfer in women >or=38 years by conducting an evidence-based evaluation. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of 2000-2004 national SART data. SETTING National writing group. PATIENT(S) A total of 36,103 day 3 embryo transfers in women >or=38 years undergoing their first assisted reproductive technology cycle. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Logistic regression was used to model the probability of pregnancy, delivery, and multiple births (twin or high order) based on age- and cycle-specific parameters. RESULT(S) Pregnancy rates, delivery rates, and multiple rates increased up to transfer of three embryos in 38-year-olds and four in 39-year-olds; beyond this number, only multiple rates increased. In women >or=40 years, delivery rates and multiple rates climbed steadily with increasing numbers transferred. Multivariate analysis confirmed the statistically significant effect of age, number of oocytes retrieved, and embryo cryopreservation on delivery and multiple rates. Maximum FSH level was not an independent predictor by multivariate analysis. Use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection was associated with lowered delivery rate. CONCLUSION(S) No more than three or four embryos should be transferred in 38- and 39-year-olds, respectively, whereas up to five embryos could be transferred in >or=40-year-olds. Numbers of embryos to transfer should be adjusted according to number of oocytes retrieved and availability of excess embryos for cryopreservation.
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18
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El-Shawarby SA, Ravhon A, Skull J, Ellenbogen A, Trew G, Lavery S. A prospective randomized controlled trial of Wallace and Rocket embryo transfer catheters. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 17:549-52. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60243-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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19
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Buckett WM. A review and meta-analysis of prospective trials comparing different catheters used for embryo transfer. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:728-34. [PMID: 16500345 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2005] [Revised: 08/14/2005] [Accepted: 08/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the relative efficacy of different types of embryo transfer (ET) catheters. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective randomized, controlled trials comparing at least two different ET catheters. SETTING Infertility centers providing treatment with in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF-ET). PATIENT(S) Women undergoing ET. INTERVENTION(S) Embryo transfer with soft or hard catheters. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Clinical pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) A total of seven prospective trials were identified that compared soft (Cook or Wallace) catheters with hard (TDT, Frydman, Tomcat, Rocket) catheters. The meta-analysis demonstrated an increased chance of clinical pregnancy when soft ET catheters were used. The TDT catheter was compared against both soft catheters and other hard catheters, showing decreased chance of clinical pregnancy when the TDT catheter was used. Six more prospective trials were identified comparing the Cook and Wallace soft catheters, and the meta-analysis of these data showed no demonstrable difference in clinical pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION(S) An increased chance of clinical pregnancy is achieved when soft ET catheters are used. There appears to be little difference between the Cook and Wallace soft catheters.
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Affiliation(s)
- William M Buckett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Embryo transfer is arguably the most critical step in assisted reproduction. The purpose of this article is to review the different aspects of the procedure in the light of recent evidence. RECENT FINDINGS Randomized trials have shown that significantly higher pregnancy rates are obtained when embryo transfer is performed under ultrasound guidance, the embryos are deposited in the middle part of the uterine cavity, an atraumatic technique is used and when low-dose aspirin is routinely administered following the procedure. Blood in the catheter and leaving the embryos inside it for more than 120 s diminish the pregnancy rate significantly. Air in the catheter, immediate removal of the catheter, performing two transfers in the same cycle, prolonged bed rest, sexual intercourse after embryo transfer or the use of sildenafil do not affect the results. Based on currently available evidence, Cochrane reviews have concluded that the live birth rate is not increased by delaying embryo transfer from day two to three or to the blastocyst stage, and that single embryo transfer leads to lower live birth rates than the transfer of two embryos. The value of a mock transfer a few days before the actual procedure has been challenged as the position of the uterus may change. The effect of holding the cervix with a volsellum, routinely administering antibiotics and the superiority of one catheter over the others is still to be determined. SUMMARY Recent studies confirm the importance of the various aspects of embryo transfer. More randomized studies are needed to further evaluate them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan N Sallam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alexandria and Alexandria Fertility Center, Alexandria, Egypt.
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21
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Rhodes TL, McCoy TP, Higdon HL, Boone WR. Factors affecting assisted reproductive technology (ART) pregnancy rates: a multivariate analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2005; 22:335-46. [PMID: 16247715 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-005-6794-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2005] [Accepted: 05/10/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine factors instrumental in achieving a clinical pregnancy in assisted reproductive technology (ART) patients. METHODS This study included 205 women undergoing their first ART cycle. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for patient demographics, in vitro production data, and factors associated with embryo transfer. Odds ratios (OR) were performed where appropriate. RESULTS Our analyses indicated that age (OR: 0.879), specific year in which the cycle was performed (OR: 2.959), and use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (OR: 2.867) altered potential pregnancy rate. In addition, percent fertilization (OR: 1.028), number of embryos transferred (OR: 1.842), type of catheter used to transfer the embryos (OR: 0.377), presence of blood on the catheter (OR .414), and embryologist (OR: 2.338) also altered pregnancy rate. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate patients' age, use of the Cook catheter, and presence of blood on the catheter reduce pregnancy rates. Performing ART in 1999, using ICSI, increasing fertilization rate, increasing number of embryos transferred (albeit less desirable when the chance of multiple gestation may occur), and transferring embryos via a particular embryologist, improve pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany L Rhodes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Hospital System, South Carolina 29605, USA
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22
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Shamonki MI, Schattman GL, Spandorfer SD, Chung PH, Rosenwaks Z. Ultrasound-guided trial transfer may be beneficial in preparation for an IVF cycle. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:2844-9. [PMID: 16006476 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dei139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study is to determine if ultrasound-guided trial transfer (UTT) in the office in preparation for an IVF cycle can be utilized as an alternative and/or adjunct to ultrasound-guided embryo transfer (UGET). METHODS Patients planning to undergo an IVF cycle at an academic centre were included. Each patient underwent an UTT in the office by the same practitioner. The difference in length (DL), if any, was measured from the perceived top of the uterine cavity (catheter tip) to the actual cavity apex as visualized by ultrasound. RESULTS Of the 64 patients enrolled, 19 patients (29.7%) had a measurable DL, of which 14 (21.9%) had a DL exists 0.5 cm, and nine (14.1%) had a DL exists 1.0 cm. Significant differences were noted between patients when comparing DL to previous pregnancy status and the total cavity depth (sounding depth + DL) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION UTT in the office setting appears to be beneficial in preparation for an IVF cycle with embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousa I Shamonki
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Medical College of Cornell University and The New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York 10021, USA
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23
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van Weering HGI, Schats R, McDonnell J, Hompes PGA. Ongoing pregnancy rates in in vitro fertilization are not dependent on the physician performing the embryo transfer. Fertil Steril 2005; 83:316-20. [PMID: 15705368 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.07.957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2004] [Revised: 07/14/2004] [Accepted: 07/14/2004] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the influence of the factor of the physician performing the ET with a standardized procedure on the ongoing pregnancy rates in an IVF-ET program. DESIGN Prospective observational study. SETTING Tertiary university hospital. PATIENT(S) Subfertile women with an IVF indication. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Ongoing pregnancy. RESULT(S) Six physicians performed 977 ETs. Ongoing pregnancy rates ranged from 19.1% to 29.0%, with an average rate of 23.1%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that physician is not a statistically significant variable. Differences between the pregnancy rates achieved by the physicians are within the limits of random variation. CONCLUSION(S) The probability of success in IVF is not dependent on the physician, provided the transfer procedure is standardized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans G I van Weering
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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24
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Shamonki MI, Spandorfer SD, Rosenwaks Z. Ultrasound-guided embryo transfer and the accuracy of trial embryo transfer. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:709-16. [PMID: 15689350 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have suggested that ultrasound-guided embryo transfer (UG-ET) may improve the outcome in IVF; however, several factors may account for the improvement in pregnancy rate. This study examines the use of ultrasound to determine the accuracy of trial transfer (TT) in preparation for ET. METHODS Sixty-seven consecutive patients prospectively underwent UG-ET over a 2 month period. Total cavity length by US was compared with the length noted by TT. A difference of > or = 1 cm was considered significant. All embryos were placed within 1-2 cm of the fundus by US. RESULTS Twenty patients (29.9%) had a difference of > or = 1 cm and 13 patients (19.4%) had a difference of < or = 1.5 cm. Patients with a difference of > or = 1 or > or = 1.5 cm had a significantly greater depth at transfer (P < 0.001) and uterine cavity length (P < 0.001) when compared with patients without a difference. Clinical pregnancy, implantation, delivery and overall miscarriage rates did not differ between patients with a difference of > or = 1 or > or = 1.5 cm versus no difference. There were no ectopic pregnancies. CONCLUSIONS Nineteen percent of patients had a discrepancy of > or = 1.5 cm and approximately 30% had a difference of > or = 1 cm from TT at UG-ET, suggesting a benefit to UG-ET. A large prospective randomized trial comparing UG-ET with blind transfer is required to assess further if UG-ET should be used in all cases of ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousa I Shamonki
- Cornell Center for Reproductive Medicine, 505 East 70th Street, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10021, USA
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25
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Silberstein T, Weitzen S, Frankfurter D, Trimarchi JR, Keefe DL, Plosker SM. Cannulation of a resistant internal os with the malleable outer sheath of a coaxial soft embryo transfer catheter does not affect in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer outcome. Fertil Steril 2004; 82:1402-6. [PMID: 15533367 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2004] [Revised: 04/06/2004] [Accepted: 04/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of cannulation of a resistant cervical os with the outer malleable sheath of a double-lumen, soft ET catheter on IVF-ET outcomes. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING University-based IVF center. PATIENT(S) One hundred forty-two patients undergoing 142 ETs. INTERVENTION(S) Trial ultrasound-guided ET at all transfers, leaving the malleable outer sheath in situ when the soft inner catheter could not negotiate the internal os. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) In 102 ETs (71.8%), the soft inner sheath easily negotiated the internal os (group 1). Forty ETs (28.2%) required cannulation of resistant internal ora with the outer sheath of the trial catheter (group 2). Implantation rates (35% vs. 32% in groups 1 and 2, respectively) and clinical pregnancy rates (50% vs. 45%) were not significantly different between groups. Blood was present on the transfer catheter after ET more frequently in group 2 than in group 1 (55% vs. 15%); however, neither the implantation rate nor the clinical pregnancy rate were affected by the presence of blood. CONCLUSION(S) Cannulation of a resistant internal os by the malleable outer sheath and blood on the transfer catheter after ET do not have an adverse effect on implantation rate or clinical pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tali Silberstein
- Division of Biology and Medicine, Women and Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island, Brown Medical School, Providence 02905, USA
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26
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Pritts EA, Taylor RN. An evidence-based evaluation of endometriosis-associated infertility. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2003; 32:653-67. [PMID: 14560892 DOI: 10.1016/s0889-8529(03)00045-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Although endometriosis is associated with infertility, a clear causal relationship has yet to be established, unless adhesive disease is found. Despite this indirect association, multiple theories have been promulgated and studies are currently underway to investigate theoretic pathogenetic mechanisms. The data regarding the treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility are limited and conflicting; however, some general preliminary conclusions can be drawn. It seems that, with early-stage disease, surgical treatment increases pregnancy rates. Using the US Preventive Services Task Force classification scheme, the evidence in support of this finding is of the highest quality, or level I. Surgical treatment for moderate and severe disease also confers benefit, although the evidence in support of this treatment is of lesser quality, level II-3 by the scheme. Medical treatment, particularly if it induces an anovulatory state, has no benefit and may delay fertility. This evidence is again of the highest quality, with a classification of level I. Although assisted reproductive technologies are of benefit regarding fertility for women with endometriosis, the IVF evidence is inconclusive, with both treatments being evaluated by at least one randomized, controlled trial conferring a level I classification to the evidence. It is unclear at this time whether endometriomas have an impact on IVF outcome. The evidence consists of only a few lower-quality studies, with a classification level of II-2. Despite the haziness of current insight into the treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility, well-designed clinical trials and basic mechanistic investigations are underway in many reproductive medicine centers. As the data from these scientific inquiries emerge, clinicians will have a clearer view of effective treatment regimens for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Pritts
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, H4/630 CSC, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792-6188, USA.
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Sallam HN, Agameya AF, Rahman AF, Ezzeldin F, Sallam AN. Impact of technical difficulties, choice of catheter, and the presence of blood on the success of embryo transfer--experience from a single provider. J Assist Reprod Genet 2003; 20:135-42. [PMID: 12762411 PMCID: PMC3455637 DOI: 10.1023/a:1022905618883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the impact of technical difficulties, choice of catheter, and the presence of blood during embryo transfer on the results of in vitro fertilization and ICSI. METHODS A cohort of 784 consecutive cycles in 655 in vitro fertilization and ICSI patients were studied. RESULTS Negotiating the cervix, using the volsellum, presence of blood on the catheter wall or on the cervix did not affect the results. Changing the catheter and blood on the catheter tip reduced the pregnancy (P < 0.05 and P < 0.05) and implantation rates (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01). The Ultrasoft catheter produced higher pregnancy (P < 0.0005) and implantation rates (P < 0.01) compared to the more rigid Frydman catheter. CONCLUSIONS Negotiation of the cervix, the use of a volsellum, and the presence of blood on the catheter wall or on the cervix do not affect the results. Changing the catheter and blood on the catheter tip significantly diminish the pregnancy and implantation rates. Soft catheters perform better.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan N Sallam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt 21615.
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28
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Sallam HN, Agameya AF, Rahman AF, Ezzeldin F, Sallam AN. Ultrasound measurement of the uterocervical angle before embryo transfer: a prospective controlled study. Hum Reprod 2002; 17:1767-72. [PMID: 12093837 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/17.7.1767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study aim was to determine whether moulding the embryo transfer catheter according to the uterocervical angle measured by ultrasound could improve pregnancy and implantation rates. METHODS Patients were alternately allocated to one of two groups. In the ultrasound-guided group (n = 320), the catheter was moulded according to the uterocervical angle measured by abdominal ultrasound. In controls (n = 320), embryo transfer was performed using the "clinical feel" method. RESULTS Moulding the embryo transfer catheter according to the uterocervical angle significantly increased clinical pregnancy [(OR = 1.57, 95% CI (1.08-2.27)] and implantation rates [(OR = 1.47, 95% CI (1.10-1.96)] compared with the "clinical feel" method. It also significantly reduced difficult transfers [(OR = 0.25, 95% CI (0.16-0.40)] and blood during transfers [OR = 0.71, 95% CI (0.50-0.99)]. Patients with large angles (>60 degrees ) had significantly lower pregnancy rates compared with those with no angle [OR = 0.36, 95% CI (0.16-0.52)]. CONCLUSIONS Moulding the embryo transfer catheter according to the uterocervical angle measured by ultrasound increases clinical pregnancy and implantation rates and diminishes the incidence of difficult and bloody transfers.
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Affiliation(s)
- H N Sallam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandria Fertility Center, University of Alexandria, 22 Victor Emanuel Square, Smouha, Alexandria, Egypt 21615
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Nielsen IK, Lindhard A, Loft A, Ziebe S, Andersen AN. A Wallace malleable stylet for difficult embryo transfer in an in vitro fertilization program: a case-control study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2002; 81:133-7. [PMID: 11942903 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0412.2002.810208.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of using a Wallace malleable stylet in combination with an Edwards-Wallace embryo replacement catheter in case of difficult embryo transfer (ET). METHODS A retrospective case-control study was used. The standard ET procedure at the clinic was to use a single tooth tenaculum, and a speculum to straighten the cervical canal prior to inserting the Edwards-Wallace embryo replacement catheter. In 205 of 2041 (10%) fresh ET difficulties were experienced during ET and a Wallace malleable stylet was used to place the outer catheter sheath correctly. This stylet transfer group was compared with a control transfer group of 410 ET performed just before and after each stylet transfer. RESULTS No differences in number of transferred embryos, cleavage stage, or embryo morphology score were found between the two groups. We found no differences in implantation rates (20.7 and 19.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8-1.5]) or delivery rates (29.3 and 25.4% [CI 0.8-1.8]) between the study and control group. CONCLUSION Using a Wallace malleable stylet in combination with an Edwards-Wallace embryo replacement catheter in case of difficult ET has no negative impact on implantation and delivery rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Kirstine Nielsen
- The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Mahutte NG, Arici A. Endometriosis and assisted reproductive technologies: are outcomes affected? Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2001; 13:275-9. [PMID: 11396650 DOI: 10.1097/00001703-200106000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The preponderance of recent data suggests that endometriosis does not adversely affect in-vitro fertilization pregnancy rates. However, many studies demonstrate impaired oocyte quality, decreased fertilization, and compromised implantation rates. Such findings give insight into the mechanisms by which endometriosis may impact on fertility, and provide clues as how to focus assisted reproductive technologies in order to overcome these deficiencies. Specifically, extended downregulation protocols, ample use of gonadotropins for ovarian stimulation, and conservative management of endometriomas have all been suggested as means to optimize in-vitro fertilization outcomes for women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- N G Mahutte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8063, USA
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