[Current possibilities in reproduction medicine. 2. Spectrum of therapeutic procedures]

Abstract

As measures of assisted conception, GIFT, ZIFT, TV test and insemination require patent Fallopian tubes. In the majority of cases, intra-uterine insemination is attempted before the invasive methods. Intratubal gamete transfer is employed in particular in the case of infertility that has resisted treatment for years, some forms of male subfertility, and in patients with endometriosis or other forms of genital pathology. In addition, ZIFT and the TV test permit an assessment of in vitro fertilization. In the case of IVF, the classical indication of microscopically non-treatable tubal occlusion has been expanded considerably. Although GIFT is associated with a pregnancy rate of between 30 and 40%, IVF is increasingly being used in women in whom GIFT is indicated, thus avoiding the need for laparoscopy. The alternative techniques of transvaginal GIFT or transvaginal embryo transfer cannot yet be definitively evaluated for clinical routine use. In view of the wide range of therapeutic possibilities, individual counselling of the patient is an essential requirement.