I-18: Techniques and Technologies for Embryo Transfer: Does It Really Matter.

The learning objectives of this presentation are to understand the dynamics involved in the process of ET, evaluate the evidence for/against common practices and techniques and develop a standardized ET process in view of supporting evidence. Gametes and embryos are handled with extreme care at every step of the Laboratory process. ET is the least sophisticated step of the in vitro Fertilization process, making it the most vulnerable. The working hypothesis is that designing a Standardized Embryo Transfer Approach is expected to maintain higher pregnancy rates and lower adverse effects. Experimental findings suggest that positioning of the patient while keeping the uterine fundus at the highest point in the sagittal cross-section above the horizon, placement of the catheter tip at mid cavity about 2.0 cm from the fundus and delivery of the load over a course of 10 s or more, may be associated with the desired outcome. Evidence supports: a definite proof of benefit for the use of soft embryo transfer catheters and ultrasound guidance; a limited proof of benefit for mid-uterine position of catheter tip, acupuncture, use of hyaluronic acid , shortening of the loading discharging interval time of embryos and mechanical closure of the cervical canal following ET; and no proof of benefit for the use of mock transfer prior to ET, antibiotic administration, full bladder, removal or flushing of the cervical mucus, use of fibrin sealants and bed rest following ET.