Chapter 28 - Ultrasonography-guided embryo transfer:

Summary

The success of the embryo transfer (ET) is dependent upon multiple factors including embryo quality, proper endometrial receptivity, and the ET technique. Several studies have demonstrated a significantly higher pregnancy outcome following transabdominal ultrasound-guided ET (USG-ET). USG-ET enables the visualization of: the guiding cannula and transfer catheter placement in relation to the endometrial surface and uterine fundus during ET; the position and movement of a transfer-associated air bubble; and the impact of subendometrial myometrial contraction leading to endometrial movement. Transvaginal sonography gives a much better view of the uterine cavity than transabdominal sonography. The combination of a modern catheter and ultrasound allows visual monitoring of the entire ET process while navigating embryo placement within the uterine cavity with high precision. The goal of transcervical ET is to deliver embryos to the uterine fundus in a gentle, atraumatic manner at the presumed site of maximum implantation potential.