Virtual Compared With In-Clinic Transvaginal Ultrasonography for Ovarian Reserve Assessment

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Medical Imaging Technology
• Women's Health

Background:

• Ovarian reserve assessment is crucial for fertility evaluations.
• Traditional in-clinic ultrasonography requires in-person visits, potentially limiting access.
• Virtual ultrasonography offers a novel approach to remote patient assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the noninferiority of virtual transvaginal ultrasonography compared to in-clinic ultrasonography for ovarian reserve assessment.
• To assess the equivalence of antral follicle counts obtained via virtual versus in-clinic methods.
• To compare patient satisfaction between virtual and in-clinic ultrasonography experiences.

Main Methods:

• A single-site, head-to-head crossover trial was conducted.
• Participants performed self-administered virtual transvaginal ultrasonography at home, guided remotely.
• In-clinic transvaginal ultrasonography was performed subsequently, with both procedures reviewed by blinded experts.

Main Results:

• Ninety-six percent of virtual images and 98% of in-clinic images met clinical quality standards, demonstrating noninferiority.
• Antral follicle counts were equivalent between virtual and in-clinic settings.
• Virtual examinations yielded superior net promoter scores, indicating higher patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Remotely guided virtual transvaginal ultrasonography is noninferior to in-clinic procedures for clinical quality imaging and equivalent for antral follicle count estimation.
• Virtual ultrasonography demonstrates superior patient satisfaction.
• This technology has the potential to significantly expand access to fertility care.