Tubal versus uterine transfer of cryopreserved embryos: a prospective randomized trial.
OBJECTIVE
To compare pregnancy rates after fallopian tubal and uterine transfer of cryopreserved embryos.


METHODS
Prospective randomized trial with assignment to treatment groups by a random number table.


METHODS
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, a tertiary care academic institution.


METHODS
Forty patients with patent fallopian tubes and at least three cryopreserved embryos.


METHODS
Cryopreserved embryos were thawed and transferred to the fallopian tube by laparoscopy or to the uterus by a transcervical catheter.


METHODS
Clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates.


RESULTS
Tubal transfer of cryopreserved embryos resulted in statistically higher clinical (68% versus 24%) and ongoing pregnancy rates (58% versus 19%) when compared with uterine transfer.


CONCLUSIONS
Tubal transfer of cryopreserved embryos is highly effective and offers an improved pregnancy rate when compared with uterine transfer of embryos. This method of transfer should be considered in patients with patent fallopian tubes and at least three cryopreserved embryos.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City.
B J
BJ
Van Voorhis
C H
CH
Syrop
R D
RD
Vincent
D H
DH
Chestnut
A E
AE
Sparks
F K
FK
Chapler
D000328:Adult; D015925:Cryopreservation; D004624:Embryo Transfer / Q000379:methods*; D005187:Fallopian Tubes; D005260:Female; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D016729:Leuprolide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014599:Uterus
D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone; D016729:Leuprolide