After the FLUSH trial: a prospective observational study of lipiodol flushing as an innovative treatment for unexplained and endometriosis-related infertility

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the demographics, efficacy and safety of lipiodol flushing fertility treatment.

Design: Prospective observational study.

Setting: Secondary level care infertility clinic and radiology centre based in Auckland, New Zealand.

Population: The first cohort of 100 New Zealand women with infertility to undergo lipiodol flushing as an innovative fertility treatment.

Methods: Women received lipiodol flushing performed by a hysterosalpingogram technique and were followed up at 6 months.

Main outcome measures: Clinical pregnancy at 6 months post-treatment; and live birth or ongoing pregnancy.

Results: The overall pregnancy rate was 30% and the live birth or ongoing pregnancy rate 27%. For women under 40 years old, a 32% pregnancy rate and a 25% live birth or ongoing pregnancy rate were seen in women with unexplained infertility, and a 50% pregnancy rate and a 47% live birth or ongoing pregnancy rate were seen in women with endometriosis. Of women aged 40 years and older, the pregnancy rate was 13% and the live birth or ongoing pregnancy rate was 13%. The pregnancy rates included those occurring after additional interventions, such as intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilisation, accounting for 12 of the 30 pregnancies. There were no treatment complications.

Conclusion: This study provides further evidence of the efficacy and safety of lipiodol flushing fertility treatment.