Ultrasound-guided embryo transfer and the accuracy of trial embryo transfer

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 ≥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 ≥1 cm and 13 patients (19.4%) had a difference of ≤1.5 cm. Patients with a difference of ≥1 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 ≥1 or ≥1.5 cm versus no difference. There were no ectopic pregnancies. Conclusions: Nineteen percent of patients had a discrepancy of ≥1.5 cm and ∼30% had a difference of ≥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. © The Author 2005. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved.