[Intracytoplasmic sperm injection]

The first results of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in Norway are presented. Acceptable fertilization rates were obtained for all indications; severe male infertility, as well as moderately reduced sperm quality where in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer had previously failed. Furthermore, in cases where IVF had failed despite normal sperm quality, fertilization rates of 50-60% were achieved. The overall pregnancy rate was 24.9% per embryo transfer, and the live pregnancy rate per started cycle was 13.4%. As expected, the results improved with experience. The results were greatly influenced by the age of the female. In the age group 34 years or less, the total pregnancy rate per cycle was 32.4%, with a miscarriage rate of 24.2%. In the age group 35 years or more, (42% of the study group), the total pregnancy rate per embryo transfer was 15.2%, with a miscarriage rate of 75%. The corresponding implantation rates were 17.4% and 7.9% respectively. 23 children have been born so far, none with major malformations or chromosome abnormality symptoms.