Semin Reprod Med 2011; 29(2): 075-082
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1272469
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Fertility-Enhancing Hysteroscopic Surgery

Stefano Bettocchi1 , Maria Teresa Achilarre1 , Oronzo Ceci1 , Selvaggi Luigi1
  • 1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Neonatology, University of Bari, Italy
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 March 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Uterine abnormalities, including congenital pathologies, polyps, submucous leiomyomata, intrauterine adhesions, and chronic endometritis, have been reported in 21 to 47% of patients undergoing in vitro fertilization cycles. The position of hysteroscopy in current fertility practice is under debate. Although there are many randomized controlled trials on technical feasibility and patient compliance demonstrating that the procedure is well tolerated and effective in the treatment of intrauterine pathologies, there is no consensus on the effectiveness of hysteroscopic surgery in improving the prognosis of subfertile women. However, in patients with at least two failed cycles of assisted reproductive technology, diagnostic hysteroscopy and, if necessary, operative hysteroscopy is mandatory to improve reproductive outcome. Office hysteroscopy is a powerful tool for the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine benign pathologies. It is a simple, safe, reproducible, effective, quick, well-tolerated, and low-cost surgical procedure, with no need for an operating room.