Transabdominal ultrasound guided oocyte retrieval using vaginal ultrasound probe: Definition of the technique

Abstract

Purpose To define whether transabdominal ultrasound guided oocyte retrieval (TUGOR) is a feasible, effective and safe method. Methods A total of 64 patients who underwent TUGOR in a tertiary referral university hospital in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic were enrolled. Indications, total number of oocytes collected, total number and percentage of mature oocytes, duration of procedure, complication rates and total number of fertilized oocytes were assessed. Results The indications for TUGOR were as follows; virgin women with decreased ovarian reserve who opted fertility preservation (n = 52, 81.1%), Ewing Sarcoma (n = 1, 1.56%), breast cancer (n = 4, 6.2%), lymphoma (n = 1, 1.56%) endometrioma (n = 1, 1.56%), immature teratoma of the ovary (n = 1, 1.56%), multiple large uterine fibroids (n = 2, 3.1%), adnexal transposition due to bowel surgery (n = 1, 1.56%) and Mayer Rokitansky Kuster Hauser Syndrome (n = 1, 1.56%). Total number of oocytes retrieved and mean number of oocytes collected were 315 and 4.92 +/- 1.7 (range 1-21), respectively. The mean duration of the procedure was 12.4 +/- 1.2 min. The number and percentage of mature oocytes were 272 and 86.3%, respectively. A total of 14 embryos were frozen in four patients and one blastocyst transfer was performed ending up with live birth. Superficial epigastric artery injury occurred in two patients and resolved spontaneously. No oocyte was retrieved in five patients with single growing follicle in the first attempt. Conclusion TUGOR is a feasible, effective and safe method of oocyte retrieval for the purpose of fertility preservation or in patients with inaccessible ovaries via transvaginal route undergoing IVF.