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Epidural anesthesia in an in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer program
1Ecocenter and Fertility Center, Clinica C. G. Ruesch, Napoli, Italy.
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Epidural anesthesia provides effective pain relief during oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization. However, it did not significantly improve fertilization or pregnancy rates compared to standard intravenous sedation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Transvaginal oocyte retrieval is a key procedure in assisted reproductive technologies.
- Anesthesia choice can impact patient comfort and procedural outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of epidural anesthesia versus intravenous sedation for transvaginal oocyte retrieval in an in vitro fertilization program.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 148 patients undergoing oocyte retrieval.
- Group A (44 patients) received epidural anesthesia; Group B (104 patients) received intravenous sedation with propofol and nitrous oxide.
Main Results:
- Epidural anesthesia achieved 98% satisfactory anesthesia with no complications.
- Intravenous sedation resulted in nausea (14%) and vomiting (6%).
- Fertilization, cleavage, and pregnancy rates were comparable between groups (e.g., 20% vs. 19.6% pregnancy rate).
Conclusions:
- Epidural anesthesia is a safe and effective option for transvaginal oocyte retrieval.
- It does not offer a significant advantage in improving in vitro fertilization treatment outcomes over intravenous sedation.