Assessments of embryo transfer after in-vitro fertilization: effects of glyceryl trinitrate.
The role of embryo transfer and its associated difficulties on the outcome of human in-vitro fertilization (IVF) were examined using a standardized procedure and a scoring system (embryo transfer scores 1-5). This system was used to assess any effects of the smooth muscle relaxant glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) on embryo transfer. Patients (n = 120) were randomized in a double-blind manner at their first embryo transfer to receive sublingual GTN or placebo before the transfer. Retrospective analysis showed that higher pregnancy rates were associated with uncomplicated transfers (score 1; P < 0.01). The outcome measures included pregnancy rate, total time of cervical manipulation (embryo transfer time) and embryo transfer score. All pregnancies had a transfer score of 1 or 2, but no recorded parameter differentiated between pregnant or non-pregnant cycles, and GTN had no significant effect on any parameter.
Shaker
A G
AG
University Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK.
Fleming
R
R
Jamieson
M E
ME
Yates
R W
RW
Coutts
J R
JR
D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000187:drug effects; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004624:Embryo Transfer; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006801:Humans; D009126:Muscle Relaxation / Q000187:drug effects; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000187:drug effects; D005996:Nitroglycerin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012189:Retrospective Studies
D005996:Nitroglycerin