Infertility diagnosed by laparoscopy: review of 324 cases

Reproductive biology has developed into a major subspecialty in gynecology. This study is a retrospective analysis of a private patient population in which the major presenting complaint was infertility. The 324 cases reviewed are divided into three groups: group1-congenital lesions (subdivided into anatomic defects and endocrine disorders); group 2-infectious disorders and genital neoplasias; and group 3-iatrogenic causes of anovulation. Direct visualization of the internal genitalia combined with a hysterogram gives positive proof of tubal patency and allows the surgeon to develop a plan of therapy. By visualizing the ovaries, he obtains the information necessary for the proper choice of ovulatory stimulating agents. Laparoscopy is not a new procedure but has been used increasingly in modern medicine. Better optic resolution and new operative instrumentation have been a great help to the fertility specialist. The laparoscope spans the gap between palpation and exploratory laparotomy.