Complications and problems in transvaginal sector scan-guided follicle aspiration

Abstract

Complications and problems in the first 181 transvaginal sector scan-guided follicle aspirations in a recently established in vitro fertilization (IVF) unit were studied. No major complications occurred and, in only 3% of patients, it appeared impossible to aspirate the follicles because of method-related problems (i.e., localization of ovaries too high above the vaginal top and/or ovaries too mobile). The method is easily mastered and the oocyte yield of this method is already high, even though it is early in the learning phase of the procedure. The mean duration of the procedure decreased from more than 30 minutes to less than 20 minutes in the first 7 months after the introduction of this technique in the IVF program. The authors believe this method soon will be the choice for follicle aspiration in all major IVF programs.