Clinical value of endometrial pinopodes detection in artificial donation cycles

The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical value of pinopode detection in women with a history of multiple implantation failures after participation in assisted reproduction programmes. Forty-six women with primary infertility, three or more previous implantation failures in assisted reproduction programmes and indication for the use of donated oocytes underwent a mock cycle of endometrial preparation, based on a standard protocol. Endometrial samples were taken on days 6 and 8 of progesterone administration, and were examined under scanning electron microscope for detection and evaluation of pinopodes. The most receptive endometrial day (the day on which fully developed pinopodes can be demonstrated) was determined for each woman. In 73.91%, a new modified transfer cycle was suggested and applied by altering the timing between IVF and progesterone commencement days; 76.47% achieved a clinical pregnancy within two attempts and 67.64% delivered a healthy baby. Among women with no indication for modification of their transfer cycle, only 33.33% achieved a pregnancy and 25% delivered a healthy baby. The difference in the outcomes between transfer cycles with and without modification was significant. In conclusion, detection of pinopodes in women with multiple implantation failures can be of great clinical value.