[Results of diagnostic hysteroscopies in an in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer program]

Twentysix sterile women were examined during the development and growth phase of the follicle, using a microhysteroscope manufactured by Karl Storz, under local anaesthesia. All these patients had been included in the in-vitro fertilisation/embryo transfer (IVF/ET) programme because their oviducts were either missing or had been irreparably damaged. Pathological findings were present in 7 patients. Cervical conditions were normal in 22 patients, and intrauterine conditions were without any abnormal findings in 23 patients. The clinical relevance of the findings with regard to embryo transfer and implantation are discussed. It is concluded that hysteroscopy not only occupies an important rank in the general diagnosis of sterility, but is also of considerable importance in preparatory work for embryo transfer.