Outcome of pregnancies complicated by severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): a follow-up beyond the second trimester

Pregnancy Outcomes Associated with Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Infertile Women

Objective

To assess the relationship between ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and adverse outcomes using population-based data in the United States. The hypothesis is that patients with OHSS were more likely to deliver preterm and more likely to have hypertensive disorders.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study identified 94 patients with OHSS and 183 matched referents in eight counties in Minnesota. Data were collected regarding pregnancy history, infertility treatment, and pregnancy outcomes. Using the Rochester Epidemiology Project, study subjects were identified from female patients, aged 18 to 49 years, who were diagnosed with infertility from January 2, 1995 to December 1, 2017, and had a pregnancy greater than 20 weeks' gestation. The primary outcome was preterm delivery or hypertensive disorder of pregnancy incidence in the OHSS group when compared with control patients. Chi-squared test, t test, and multivariate logistic models were used where appropriate.

Results

Patients with OHSS were more likely to deliver preterm (odds ratio, 2.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-3.65; P < 0.01), and their neonates were more likely to be small for gestational age (odds ratio, 4.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.61-14.19; P < 0.01). No significant differences between the groups were observed in any other outcome. Patients with OHSS are more likely to deliver preterm if they undergo fresh transfer compared with a freeze all and subsequent frozen transfer (odds ratio, 3.03, 95% confidence interval, 1.20-7.66, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

OHSS may lead to preterm birth and small-for-gestational-age neonates, which changes patient counseling and leads to arranging specialized obstetrical care for these patients with OHSS.

Obstetric outcomes following ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in IVF - a comparison with uncomplicated fresh and frozen transfer cycles

Background

We aimed to assess the correlation between ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in the early course of in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies and obstetric outcomes.

Methods

We identified records of patients admitted due to OHSS following IVF treatment at our institution between 2008 and 2020. Cases were included if pregnancy resulted in a live singleton delivery (OHSS group). OHSS cases were matched at a 1:5:5 ratio with live singleton deliveries following IVF with fresh embryo transfer (fresh transfer group) and frozen embryo transfer (FET group), according to maternal age and parity. Computerized files were reviewed, and maternal, obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared.

Results

Overall, 44 OHSS cases were matched with 220 fresh transfer and 220 FET pregnancies. Patient demographics were similar between the groups, including body mass index, smoking and comorbidities. Gestational age at delivery, the rate of preterm births, preeclampsia and cesarean delivery were similar between the groups. Placental abruption occurred in 6.8% of OHSS pregnancies, 1.4% of fresh transfer pregnancies and 0.9% of FET pregnancies (p=0.02). On post-hoc analysis, the rate of placental abruption was significantly higher in OHSS pregnancies, compared with the two other groups, and this maintained significance after adjustment for confounders. Birthweights were 3017 ± 483, 3057 ± 545 and 3213 ± 542 grams in the OHSS, fresh transfer and FET groups, respectively (p=0.004), although the rate of small for gestational age neonates was similar between the groups.

Conclusions

OHSS in the early course of IVF pregnancies is associated with an increased risk of placental abruption.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and adverse pregnancy outcome

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and adverse pregnancy outcome.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched. The primary outcome was a composite score of adverse maternal outcome including either preterm birth (PTB), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), pre-eclampsia (PE) or pregnancy induced hypertension, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, thromboembolic events or need for caesarean section (CS). Secondary outcomes were a composite score of adverse fetal outcome including either miscarriage, low birthweight, fetal anomalies or intrauterine fetal death (IUD) and the individual components of both primary and secondary outcomes.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Thirteen studies (3303 ART pregnancies with and 89,720 without OHSS) were included. The risk of composite adverse maternal outcome (RR: 8.8, 95% CI: 8.1-9.5) was higher in women with compared to those without OHSS. The association between OHSS and adverse pregnancy outcome was mainly due to the higher risk of PTB (RR: 11.4, 95% CI: 10.5-12.4), while there was no difference in the risk of others primary outcome. Likewise, the risk of composite fetal outcome was higher in pregnancies with a prior OHSS (RR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-2.0). The strength of association between OHSS and composite adverse maternal outcome persisted when considering singleton pregnancies or those with severe disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancies complicated by OHSS are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcome, especially PTB.

Predictive Factors for Recovery Time in Conceived Women Suffering From Moderate to Severe Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate potential predictors for recovery time in pregnant patients with moderate to severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

METHODS

A total of 424 pregnant patients with moderate to severe OHSS who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were retrospectively identified. The clinical features and laboratory findings within 24 h after admission were collected. Treatment for OHSS was carried out according to standard procedures, including fluid replacement therapy, human albumin, aspirin, low-molecular-weight heparin, and paracentesis, when necessary. Patients were discharged from the hospital when the tmorning hematocrit was <40% and no obvious clinically relevant symptoms existed, such as abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and shortness of breath. Meanwhile, ultrasound indicating little pleural or abdominal effusion and biochemical abnormalities returning to normal were required. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to assess the association between the blood-related parameters and recovery time. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the relationship between the clinical or laboratory parameters and recovery time.

RESULTS

The median recovery time of these patients was 11 days. In Spearman's correlation test, leukocytes, hemoglobin, platelets, hematocrit, creatinine, prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen (Fib), D-dimer, and fibrinogen degradation products (FDPs) were positively correlated with recovery time. On the other hand, albumin and thrombin time (TT) were negatively correlated with recovery time. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hemoglobin, platelets, albumin, and Fib were significantly associated with the recovery time of patients with OHSS (p = 0.023, p < 0.001, p = 0.007, p < 0.001, and p = 0.019, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In pregnant patients with OHSS, PCOS and hypoalbuminemia were associated with a significantly longer recovery time. Meanwhile, the recovery time was longer when patients have high levels of hemoglobin, platelets, and Fib.

Perinatal outcomes of singleton live births after late moderate-to-severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: A propensity score-matched study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether singleton live births achieved following in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in women with late moderate-to-severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study conducted from January 2016 to June 2021. A total of 4,012 IVF/ICSI-fresh embryo transfer cycles that achieved singleton live births were included. According to the diagnosis of OHSS, the cycles were divided into two groups: late moderate-to-severe OHSS (MS-OHSS) group (n = 114) and non-OHSS group (n = 3,898). Multiple baseline covariates were controlled by propensity score matching, yielding 114 late MS-OHSS singleton live births matched to 337 non-OHSS singleton live births. The primary outcome of the study was normal term infant. The secondary outcomes were perinatal complications, gestational age at birth, birth weight, and birth height.

RESULTS

Before propensity score matching, no significant difference in perinatal outcomes was identified between late MS-OHSS group and non-OHSS group. After matching maternal age, BMI, basal serum FSH level, basal serum AMH level, basal antral follicle count, type of stimulation protocol, day of embryo development for embryo transfer, number of embryo transfer, and number of oocytes retrieved, there was still no significant difference in obstetric outcomes and neonatal outcomes between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings demonstrate that the perinatal outcomes were similar between the two groups. However, because the sample size of patients with late MS-OHSS was limited in this study, further investigations are warranted using a larger sample size.

The Association between Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome and Pregnancy Complications following Fertility Treatments

OBJECTIVE

 This study was aimed to assess the association between ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and pregnancy complications among women who conceived following fertility treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

 A retrospective population-based cohort study, including all singleton deliveries of patients conceived following ovulation induction (OI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) between 1988 and 2016, was conducted. All births occurred in a single tertiary medical center. A comparison was performed between deliveries of women who had experienced OHSS at early gestation and subsequently had a pregnancy and women without OHSS. Women lacking prenatal care, multiple gestations, and stillbirths were excluded from the analyses. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to control for confounders.

RESULTS

 During the study period, 351,373 deliveries met the inclusion criteria, of which 6,748 were deliveries of infants who were conceived by either IVF or OI. Of this study population, 105 cases (1.6%) composed the exposed group, that is, women who had experienced OHSS with a subsequent live birth. In the multivariate analyses, after controlling for confounders, OHSS was not found as an independent risk factor for preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm delivery (both <37 and <34 weeks), low birth weight (LBW), very LBW (VLBW), small for gestational age (SGA), and caesarean delivery. In a subanalysis conducted solely on the IVF population, similar results were found, aside from the association between OHSS and preterm delivery before 34 weeks of gestation which was statistically significant (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.3 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0-5.3, p = 0.049).

CONCLUSION

 In our population, OHSS was not found as a risk factor for adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcome. In IVF patients, OHSS is a risk factor for preterm delivery before 34 weeks of gestation.

KEY POINTS

· OHSS is not a risk factor for pregnancy complications.. · Complications investigated were preeclampsia, GDM, prematurity, and others.. · In IVF patients, OHSS is a risk factor for preterm delivery..

A rare presentation of endogenous human chorionic gonadotrophin associated severe ovarian hyperstimulation in the second trimester: a case report

Background

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is usually an iatrogenic and potentially life-threatening disease. It develops following ovulation induction and use of in vitro fertilization techniques.

Case summary

A 32-year-old primigravida Ethiopian woman presented at 15 weeks gestation with a history of progressive bilateral leg swelling and abdominal pain of 2 weeks duration. She had triplet pregnancy and conceived through in vitro fertilization. She was managed in intensive care unit.

Conclusion

Patients with multiple pregnancy following in vitro fertilization conception can have ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome as late as 15 weeks gestation. Hence, frequent follow-up should be continued to detect early signs of OHSS to avoid further complications and need of intensive care unit care.

Adnexal torsion in pregnancy after in vitro fertilization: Case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Torsion is the most common gynecologic emergency of the adnexal mass occurring during pregnancy. We report the clinical data of a case of twin pregnancy with adnexal torsion after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer, in which the patient underwent surgery for adnexal detorsion and experienced preterm delivery. One child died as a neonate, and the other child was diagnosed with hematological disease, which, to our knowledge, has not been reported previously. We also performed a systematic literature review to increase knowledge of the need for prompt surgical intervention.

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patient was a 32-year-old pregnant woman, who presented to our center with acute onset of stabbing and non-radiating continuous lower left abdominal pain after urination, of 6 hours duration.

DIAGNOSIS

Physical examination revealed that the lower abdominal tenderness was worse on the left side, and there were no signs of peritonitis. Transvaginal ultrasonographic examination indicated a multiloculated left ovary measuring 12.1 × 7.1 cm with sparse blood flow. The size of the largest cyst was 7.2 × 6.6 cm, the right ovary appeared normal, and two live fetuses were seen.

INTERVENTIONS

laparoscopy was performed 1.5 hours later, which revealed a cystic and multilocular left ovary with a black purplish surface and thin wall. The left ovary and left fallopian tube had undergone 720° torsion (3 rotations), and detorsion was performed laparoscopy.

OUTCOMES

The left adnexa recovered to near normal appearance 20 minutes postoperatively. The patient was discharged from hospital 5 days postsurgery, without complications. Unfortunately, the patient delivered two preterm babies at 30 weeks of gestation.

CONCLUSIONS

We should be alert to the possible risk of adnexal torsion in pregnant women after IVF. Adnexal torsion necessitates prompt surgical intervention, detorsion and preserving ovarian function are the main treatment methods. Furthermore, the possibility of recurrence, and pregnancy outcomes for the patient, as well as newborn health, should be considered.

Patients with IVF complicated by moderate-to-critical OHSS experience increased thrombosis, GDM and neonatal NICU admission but slightly shorter gestation compared with matched IVF counterparts: A retrospective Chinese cohort study

BACKGROUND

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a common disease during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation treatment. However, the obstetric and neonatal outcomes of this group of patients are unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of late moderate-to-critical OHSS on obstetric and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included 17,537 patients who underwent IVF/ICSI-fresh embryo transfer (ET) between June 2012 and July 2016 and met the inclusion criteria, including 7,064 eligible patients diagnosed with clinical pregnancy. Ultimately, 6,356 patients were allocated to the control group, and 385 patients who were hospitalized and treated at the center for late moderate-to-critical OHSS were allocated to the OHSS group. Then, propensity score matching analysis was performed, matching nine maternal baseline covariates and the number of multiple gestations; 385 patients with late moderate-to-critical OHSS were compared with a matched control group of 1,540 patients. The primary outcomes were the live birth rate, preterm delivery rate, miscarriage rate, gestational age at birth (weeks), obstetric complications and neonatal complications.

RESULTS

The duration of gestation in the matched control group was significantly higher than that in the OHSS group. The live birth delivery rate did not significantly differ between the OHSS and matched control groups. The incidence rates of the obstetric complications venous thrombosis (VT) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), neonatal complications and the number of neonates admitted to the NICU were significantly higher in the OHSS group than in the matched control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women undergoing IVF with fresh ET whose course is complicated by late moderate-to-critical OHSS appear to experience shortened gestation and increased obstetrical and neonatal complications compared with matched controls whose course is not complicated by OHSS. However, the live birth rate, average neonatal weight, and incidence rates of premature delivery, miscarriage, early abortion, hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP), placenta previa (PP), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), and low neonatal birth weight (LBW) did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome after assisted reproductive technologies: trends, predictors, and pregnancy outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To assess trends, predictors, and perinatal outcomes of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles in the United States.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study using National Assisted Reproductive Technology Surveillance System (NASS) data.

SETTING

Not applicable.

PATIENT(S)

Fresh autologous and embryo-banking cycles performed from 2000 to 2015.

INTERVENTIONS(S)

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

OHSS, first-trimester loss, second-trimester loss, stillbirth, low birth weight, and preterm delivery.

RESULT(S)

The proportion of IVF cycles complicated by OHSS increased from 10.0 to 14.3 cases per 1,000 from 2000 to 2006, and decreased to 5.3 per 1,000 from 2006 to 2015. The risk of OHSS was highest for cycles with more than 30 oocytes retrieved (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 3.85). OHSS was associated with a diagnosis of ovulatory disorder (aRR 2.61), tubal factor (aRR 1.14), uterine factor (aRR 1.17) and cycles resulting in pregnancy (aRR 3.12). In singleton pregnancies, OHSS was associated with increased risk of low birth weight (aRR 1.29) and preterm delivery (aRR 1.32). In twin pregnancies, OHSS was associated with an increased risk of second-trimester loss (aRR 1.81), low birth weight (aRR 1.06), and preterm delivery (aRR 1.16).

CONCLUSION(S)

Modifiable predictive factors for OHSS include number of oocytes retrieved, pregnancy following fresh embryo transfer, and the type of medication used for pituitary suppression during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Patients affected by OHSS had a higher risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight. Clinicians should take measures to reduce the risk of OHSS whenever possible.

Risk of spontaneous preterm labor in pregnancies achieved by in vitro fertilization and complicated with severe form of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: A case control study

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to examine the potential impact of severe Ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS) on the risk of preterm birth. Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a serious complication in the methods of in vitro fertilization. The pathophysiology of this process is not clear enough and the treatment is symptomatic. Human chorionic gonadotropin (h-CG) is the most important known cause of this condition. Findings of other authors often do not match when it comes to complications that may occur in pregnancy.

Methods:

In the Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic “Narodni Front” a case control study was conducted on 50 female patients with severe forms of OHSS in the period from January 2008 to March 2015. A control group was created based on age and it involved 59 patients with pregnancy achieved with IVF/ICSI during the same period, but in which OHSS did not occur.

Results:

Patients with the pregnancy complicated by OHSS, had a considerably higher rate of preterm labor, whether this was labor before gestation week 37 (56.0% vs. 30.5%) or before gestation week 34 (34.0% vs. 6.8%); significantly lower weight of newborns, as in the newborns with low body weight <2500g (45.6% vs. 25.0%) and specially in the newborn with very low body weight <1500 grams (19.1% vs. 3.8%), as well as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), (11.76% vs. 1.59%).

Conclusions:

Pregnancy achieved by the IVF/ICSI method in which severe form of OHSS has been developed could have an increased risk of preterm birth.

Predictive factors of gestational diabetes in pregnancies following assisted reproductive technology: a nested case-control study

PURPOSE

To evaluate predictive factors for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in singleton pregnancy following assisted reproductive technology (ART).

METHODS

This nested case-control study was performed during October 2016-June 2017. Pregnant women who conceived following ART procedures referred to infertility clinic were selected and categorized into GDM and non-GDM based on ADA/IAPDSG criteria. The study variables including age, educational status, first-degree family history of chronic diseases, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, previous obstetric and perinatal outcomes, infertility history, and ART cycle characteristics were collected from medical records. Prediction model to develop GDM was employed by binary logistic regression analysis after adjustment for age and body mass index, family history of diabetes, and gravidity.

RESULTS

In total, 270 women with singleton pregnancies (consisted of 135 GDM and 135 non-GDM women) conceived were studied. According to the final model, significant predictors of GDM were history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), previous ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome (OHSS) risk and progesterone injections. Administration of injectable progesterone during the first 10-12 weeks of pregnancy was associated with an approximately twofold increased risk of developing GDM [odds ratio (OR) 2.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27-4.09)] compared to vaginal progesterone. In addition, the regression analysis revealed that previous OHSS risk (OR 2.40, 95% CI 1.34-4.31) and history of PCOS (OR 2.76, 95% CI 1.26-6.06) were other most important predictors of GDM.

CONCLUSIONS

The route of progesterone administration, previous OHSS risk and history of PCOS seem to be putative risk factors for GDM in women conceived by ART.

Risk of adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes after high technology infertility treatment: a comprehensive systematic review

In the literature, there is growing evidence that subfertile patients who conceived after infertility treatments have an increased risk of pregnancy and perinatal complications and this is particularly true for patients who conceived through use of high technology infertility treatments. Moreover, high technology infertility treatments include many concomitant clinical and biological risk factors. This review aims to summarize in a systematic fashion the current evidence regarding the relative effect of the different procedures for high technology infertility treatments on the risk of adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcome. A literature search up to August 2016 was performed in IBSS, SocINDEX, Institute for Scientific Information, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar and an evidence-based hierarchy was used to determine which articles to include and analyze. Data on prepregnancy maternal factors, low technology interventions, specific procedures for male factor, ovarian tissue/ovary and uterus transplantation, and chromosomal abnormalities and malformations of the offspring were excluded. The available evidences were analyzed assessing the level and the quality of evidence according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine guidelines and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system, respectively. Current review highlights that every single procedure of high technology infertility treatments can play a crucial role in increasing the risk of pregnancy and perinatal complications. Due to the suboptimal level and quality of the current evidence, further well-designed studies are needed.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a systemic disease caused by the release of vasoactive products from hyperstimulated ovaries. It is usually iatrogenic, occurring as a complication of ovulation induction therapy during fertility treatment; however, it can also occur following spontaneous ovulation. Fertility treatment frequently takes place outside the hospital setting in stand-alone assisted conception units that are independent of the NHS. Consequently, GPs are increasingly seeing patients presenting with OHSS. Symptoms are often mild and self-limiting and can be managed in the community. The aim of this article is to help GPs to understand, recognise and safely manage OHSS.

Pregnancy outcome in severe OHSS patients following ascitic/plerural fluid drainage

BACKGROUND

Various inflammatory cytokines have been implicated in the pathophysiology of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, as well as, various pregnancy complications, including preterm labor, pregnancy induced hypertension/preeclampsia and intra-uterine growth restriction. We aim to determine whether severe OHSS, complicated by third space fluid accumulation necessitating drainage, is associated with increased risk of late obstetrics complications.

METHODS

We assessed the obstetrics and neonatal outcome measures of 16 patients admitted to our gynecology ward during a 6-year period, with severe OHSS complicated by third space fluid accumulation necessitating drainage.

RESULTS

Patients delivered at 37.3 ± 5.9weeks, with a mean birth weight of 3062 ± 757 gr. There was no single case of gestational diabetes, hypertensive diseases of pregnancy, nor placental abruption. Two (12.5%) patients had preterm delivery: one at 23 weeks' gestation and one at 28 weeks' gestation following preterm premature rupture of membrane. Another patient experienced an unexplained antepartum fetal death at 27 weeks' gestation.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe OHSS, complicated by third space fluid sequestration necessitating drainage, is not associated with adverse late pregnancy outcome, except probably for preterm labor. Following resolution of the OHSS, pregnancies should be regarded as any pregnancy resulting from IVF treatment, with special attention to prevent preterm labor.

Is severe OHSS associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes? Evidence from a case-control study

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of fertility treatment. This study evaluated pregnancy outcomes of women hospitalized for severe OHSS. A case-control study was performed of 125 women who were hospitalized due to severe OHSS compared with a control group, consisting of 156 women matched by age and aetiology of infertility, who conceived via IVF and did not develop OHSS. Among women with singleton pregnancies, patients with severe OHSS delivered significantly earlier (37.96 versus 39.11 weeks) and had smaller babies (2854 g versus 3142 g) compared with the matched controls. Similarly, rates of preterm delivery (<34 weeks of gestation: 8.9% versus 0%, P < 0.01; <37 weeks of gestation: 20.5% versus 5.1%, P < 0.01) were significantly increased among patients in the study group. There were no between-group differences in the rates of gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction. In contrast, twin pregnancies following OHSS were not significantly different from matched control twins, with regard to the rates of delivery <34 weeks and <37 weeks of gestation, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction. In conclusion, severe OHSS at early gestation is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome only in singleton gestations.

Adnexal Torsion in Pregnancy after Assisted Reproduction - Case Study and Review of the Literature

Purpose: Aim of the study was to investigate the incidence, progress, management and outcome of adnexal torsion after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in embryo transfer cycles. Materials and Method: A retrospective analysis was done of 1007 patients of a private IVF centre. The literature on adnexal torsion is reviewed. Results: In the literature, the incidence of adnexal torsion after assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is given as around 0.2 %. A significant increase of up to 33 % has been reported for cases with additional ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and in pregnant women. In our retrospective analysis of 1007 women (incidence 0.46 %) with 1411 fresh embryo transfer cycles, we found an incidence of 0.35 % per embryo transfer. All adnexal torsions were treated by laparoscopic derotation to preserve fertility. All 5 cases with torsion were pregnant, 2 patients had mild OHSS. We recorded 3 term deliveries, 1 induced abortion for sirenomelia, and 1 missed abortion. Conclusion: Adnexal torsion must be kept in mind after hyperstimulation and embryo transfer, especially when pregnancy or OHSS is also present. With early diagnosis, it should be possible to preserve fertility using laparoscopic derotation.

Course of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome in 19 Intact Twin Pregnancies After Assisted Reproduction Techniques, With a Case Report of Severe Thromboembolism

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious complication of assisted reproduction techniques using in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). Its etiology has still not yet been fully resolved. Human chorionic gonadotrophin, administered exogenously as well as produced endogenously during pregnancy, is responsible for the onset of OHSS, and high levels of estradiol appear to worsen the condition. In this case series, the course of mild to severe OHSS was evaluated in 19 intact twin pregnancies after IVF/ICSI. Another serious complication associated with OHSS is thromboembolic events. In these cases, the pregnancy can be protected through anticoagulation treatment, but there may be exceptions to this. This series includes a case of bilateral thrombosis of the internal and external jugular veins in the 7th gestational week in a twin pregnancy after OHSS and ICSI, with termination of the pregnancy in the 9th gestational week due to progressive thrombosis during anticoagulation therapy.

Long-term complications of assisted reproductive technologies

Since the birth of the first baby through in vitro fertilisation over 30 years ago, there has been a rapid increase in the number of women using assisted reproductive technologies. New techniques are constantly being introduced and are evolving rapidly. Understanding the long-term impact of these treatments, which have been linked with several potential complications affecting the mother and the child, poses a constant challenge for the scientific community. The main complications discussed in this review include the rare but serious risk of thromboembolic disease particularly in the upper half of the body and a higher risk of pregnancy complications including abnormal placentation, miscarriage, gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders. A link between assisted conception and a number of genital cancers particularly of the breast, ovary and endometrium has also been suggested, but the evidence is currently inconclusive. A number of foetal and neonatal complications including imprinting disorders, low birth weight, congenital malformations and growth disorders are also discussed.

Thyroid function and human reproductive health

Via its interaction in several pathways, normal thyroid function is important to maintain normal reproduction. In both genders, changes in SHBG and sex steroids are a consistent feature associated with hyper- and hypothyroidism and were already reported many years ago. Male reproduction is adversely affected by both thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism. Erectile abnormalities have been reported. Thyrotoxicosis induces abnormalities in sperm motility, whereas hypothyroidism is associated with abnormalities in sperm morphology; the latter normalize when euthyroidism is reached. In females, thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism can cause menstrual disturbances. Thyrotoxicosis is associated mainly with hypomenorrhea and polymenorrhea, whereas hypothyroidism is associated mainly with oligomenorrhea. Thyroid dysfunction has also been linked to reduced fertility. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation leads to important increases in estradiol, which in turn may have an adverse effect on thyroid hormones and TSH. When autoimmune thyroid disease is present, the impact of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation may become more severe, depending on preexisting thyroid abnormalities. Autoimmune thyroid disease is present in 5-20% of unselected pregnant women. Isolated hypothyroxinemia has been described in approximately 2% of pregnancies, without serum TSH elevation and in the absence of thyroid autoantibodies. Overt hypothyroidism has been associated with increased rates of spontaneous abortion, premature delivery and/or low birth weight, fetal distress in labor, and perhaps gestation-induced hypertension and placental abruption. The links between such obstetrical complications and subclinical hypothyroidism are less evident. Thyrotoxicosis during pregnancy is due to Graves' disease and gestational transient thyrotoxicosis. All antithyroid drugs cross the placenta and may potentially affect fetal thyroid function.

Ovarian torsion in in vitro fertilization-induced twin pregnancy: combination of Doppler ultrasound and laparoscopy in diagnosis and treatment can quickly solve the case

OBJECTIVE

To diagnose and treat adnexal torsion in pregnancy.

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTING

Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Perugia Hospital.

PATIENT(S)

A 38-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 1 with bichorial twin pregnancy in the 10th week of gestation who was admitted for abdominal pain. She conceived after an IVF attempt. Even if symptoms compared 2 days before the admission, they aggravated just 2 hours before.

INTERVENTION(S)

An ovarian torsion was suspected, and Doppler ultrasound showed a complete absence of vascular flow. The dimension of the right ovary and the absence of ovarian blood flow were strong arguments in favor of the diagnosis of adnexal torsion, and laparoscopic ovarian adnexectomy was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The ovarian torsion was confirmed, and right adnexectomy was necessary.

RESULT(S)

The patient had a quick convalescence and was discharged on the third postoperative day. She had no more pain. She underwent a cesarean section for placenta previa. She and her children have remained well.

CONCLUSION(S)

Considering the increased number of IVF pregnancies, an ovarian torsion should be less uncommon than in the past. Doppler ultrasound should be considered as a first-line exam. The complete absence of vascular flow in the ovary may be an indication for adnexectomy. An ovarian torsion in pregnancy should be treated laparoscopically.

Anaesthetic Issues in In-vitro Fertilisation

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonically guided transvaginal oocyte retrieval is a relatively short procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis. Any anaesthetic technique may interfere with certain aspects of human oocyte fertilisation or embryo implantation. The optimal anaesthetic technique should allow good surgical anaesthesia with minimal side effects, a short recovery time and high rate of successful pregnancy.

METHOD

We present our experience and evaluation of the various techniques studied to carry out this technique.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Amongst the various available total intravenous anaesthesia options, propofol/ remifentanil or fentanyl technique of sedation appears to be safe and effective.

Reproductive outcomes after in-vitro fertilization

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This paper reviews the effect of in-vitro fertilization on maternal and perinatal outcomes of pregnancy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Few randomized, controlled trials have been published in this area due to inherent difficulties in studying this population of infertile women who require in-vitro fertilization. Systematic review of the literature identified published studies that consistently highlighted the higher incidence of maternal and perinatal morbidity associated with pregnancies following in-vitro fertilization.

SUMMARY

Some prospective observational studies compare maternal and perinatal outcomes in in-vitro fertilization pregnancies. Larger studies show that adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, placental abruption, placenta praevia, and preterm delivery increase significantly with in-vitro fertilization. Perinatal adverse outcomes such as prematurity and those related to plurality of the pregnancy also increase. All patients undergoing in-vitro fertilization should have careful counselling regarding these increased risks prior to treatment.

Successful pregnancy complicated by early and late adnexal torsion after in vitro fertilization

OBJECTIVE

To report a case of unilateral adnexal torsion and subsequent contralateral adnexal torsion after in vitro fertilization.

DESIGN

Case report and literature review.

SETTING

Academic fertility center; university hospital.

PATIENT(S)

A 28-year-old woman with tubal factor infertility conceived with IVF and experienced mild-to-moderate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Right adnexal torsion occurred at 7 weeks of gestation, and laparoscopic detorsion was performed. Subsequent contralateral adnexal torsion occurred at 19 weeks and was managed with laparotomy and salpingo-oophorectomy.

INTERVENTION(S)

Laparoscopic right adnexal detorsion and laparotomy with salpingo-oophorectomy for left adnexal torsion.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Preservation of torsed adnexa and successful pregnancy.

RESULT(S)

Successful pregnancy and birth complicated by two episodes of adnexal torsion after IVF, and viable right adnexa after laparoscopic detorsion.

CONCLUSION(S)

Subsequent contralateral adnexal torsion is a rare complication of IVF and can occur in the second trimester. Data support preservation of the torsed adnexa despite the ovary's appearance.

Anesthesia for in-vitro fertilization

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the most recent literature on anesthesia for in-vitro fertilization.

RECENT FINDINGS

Very limited new information has become available in the review period. Propofol seems to be an acceptable option for anesthesia/sedation during in-vitro fertilization but more research is necessary to definitively establish its safety. Remifentanil is also an effective alternative.

SUMMARY

Presently, propofol and remifentanil seem to be acceptable options for anesthesia for in-vitro fertilization but further research is required.