Should diagnostic hysteroscopy be performed before in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer?

Abstract

The role of routine uterine cavity evaluation before an in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycle has not been uniformly accepted. Published trials have demonstrated a relatively high incidence of cavitary abnormalities diagnosed at outpatient hysteroscopy in patients with previous IVF-ET cycle failure, the correction of which markedly improves outcomes. The value of performing this procedure before an initial cycle in patients without previous implantation failure has not been definitively confirmed in prospective randomized trials, but would seem logical in an effort to minimize the number of cycles a patient must undergo. The incidence of cavitary abnormalities in this population varies. One large series has reported a 22.9% incidence of endometrial cavitary abnormalities diagnosed at pre-cycle office hysteroscopy in this patient group. Hysterosalpingography and baseline transvaginal ultrasonography are insufficiently sensitive alternatives. Sonohysterography with infusion of saline solution, in particular with 3-dimensional technology, may be a reasonable alternative to diagnostic hysteroscopy, although relatively few well-designed trials have addressed this issue. There are an insufficient number of prospective randomized trials to clearly demonstrate that surgical removal of all abnormalities improves IVF-ET outcome. However, investigators suggest a benefit for resection of submucosal leiomyomas, adhesions, and at least a subset of polyps. Appropriately designed trials are required before a definitive recommendation can be made.