An experience of laparoscopic and transvesical oocyte retrieval in an in vitro fertilization program.

Successful pregnancies have been achieved after in vitro fertilization of oocytes obtained by an ultrasound-guided transvesical approach, as well as with the traditional laparoscope. With the use of the same laboratory facilities, success rates for each retrieval method were evaluated in an established in vitro fertilization program. There was a significantly increased cancellation rate and a decrease in oocyte/follicle rate in the transvesical group, but there was a greater fertilization rate with possible improved embryo quality. Although the transfer rates were similar, the pregnancy rate appeared lower in the transvesical group. A valid comparison of these data is not possible because the two groups are dissimilar for factors known to influence oocyte development and recovery. Different criteria were applied to patient selection and treatment, and operation expertise differed between the two groups.