The significance of hydrosalpinx in in vitro fertilization.
OBJECTIVE
To review the effects of hydrosalpinx on IVF/ET and the role of salpingectomy.


METHODS
The literature on hydrosalpinx, IVF/ET, embryotoxicity, and salpingectomy for hydrosalpinx was identified through MEDLINE searches and reviewed.


RESULTS
Hydrosalpinx has been associated with poor fertility prognosis. IVF/ET is a better alternative to tubal surgery for those patients with severe distal tubal disease, and it is also more cost effective. However, the presence of hydrosalpinx has a negative effect on IVF/ET by decreasing the pregnancy rates and implantation rates compared with patients undergoing IVF/ET for tubal disease but without hydrosalpinx. The hydrosalpingeal fluid has been demonstrated to be embryotoxic to developing embryos, thus leading to increased early pregnancy losses. Poor endometrial receptivity has also been demonstrated in the presence of hydrosalpinges. Removal of the hydrosalpinges leads to improved IVF/ET rates comparable to those patients without hydrosalpinx. Therefore, salpingectomy has been recommended for patients with hydrosalpinx who will be undergoing IVF/ET.


CONCLUSIONS
The presence of hydrosalpinx has a negative effect on IVF/ET because of the suspected embryotoxicity of the hydrosalpingeal fluid. Surgical removal of the hydrosalpinx has been shown to improve IVF/ET rates.
Nackley
A C
AC
Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk 23507-1627, USA.
Muasher
S J
SJ
D010064:Embryo Implantation; D004624:Embryo Transfer; D005122:Exudates and Transudates; D005184:Fallopian Tube Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D005313:Fetal Death / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D011247:Pregnancy; D011379:Prognosis