Gamete intrafallopian transfer by hysteroscopy as an alternative treatment for infertility.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate efficacy and safety of the hysteroscopic cannulation by flexible catheter of the fallopian tubes for gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT).


METHODS
We studied the pregnancy rate (PR) and the safety of this new technique.


METHODS
All patients were enlisted for GIFT at our Reproductive Medicine Unit.


METHODS
We treated 26 patients whose infertility causes were terminal tubal damage, male factors, unexplained factors, and endometriosis. Patients with uterine tubal ostia unsuitable for gamete transfer or cervical incontinence were not included in the group.


METHODS
The patients underwent ovulation induction and oocyte retrieval by transvaginal ultrasonically guided puncture. The gamete transfers were carried out by hysteroscopic procedure using a flexible catheter put through the operating channel.


METHODS
The efficacy was evaluated by the PR (25.9%).


RESULTS
Seven clinical pregnancies were obtained, but two patients aborted during the first weeks of pregnancy. No ectopic pregnancies were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results indicate that hysteroscopic GIFT is an alternative, safe, effective, and not invasive technique for fertility problems.
Possati
G
G
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bologna, Italy.
Seracchioli
R
R
Melega
C
C
Pareschi
A
A
Maccolini
A
A
Flamigni
C
C
D000328:Adult; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D015181:Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D015907:Hysteroscopy; D007246:Infertility / Q000628:therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome