Robotic-assisted uterine transposition followed by anatomic pelvic repositioning for a patient with intramural fibroids and rectal cancer

OBJECTIVE

To report the first described case of robotic-assisted utero-ovarian transposition followed by anatomic repositioning in the pelvis and cervicovaginal anastomosis in a woman with uterine fibroids, which was performed for fertility preservation in the context of pelvic radiation for rectal cancer.

DESIGN

Description of technique and live-action narrated surgical footage showing uterine transposition and repositioning.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENTS

A 36-year-old woman with a new diagnosis of cT3N2M0 rectal adenocarcinoma planned for neoadjuvant chemotherapy and pelvic radiation and desired fertility preservation permissive of future pregnancy. A transvaginal ultrasound revealed a 5-cm posterior leiomyoma and a normal endometrial cavity. The patient elected for utero-ovarian transposition before chemoradiation. The patient included in this video gave consent for publication and posting of the video online, including on social media, the journal website, scientific literature websites, and other applicable sites. Per institutional guidelines, an Institutional Review Board review was not required.

INTERVENTIONS

Robotic-assisted utero-ovarian transposition was performed in an inpatient setting 2 weeks after ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval. She was given a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist for menstrual suppression after oocyte retrieval. The uterus and adnexa were transposed en bloc to the upper abdomen, with perfusion via retroflected infundibulopelvic ligaments. Intravenous indocyanine green was administered intraoperatively to visualize uterine perfusion. Three weeks postoperatively, the patient underwent surgical management of small bowel obstruction, which was successfully managed with laparoscopic adhesiolysis. The patient subsequently completed chemoradiation and had a complete response to the rectal tumor. She therefore elected for surveillance. Seven months after transposition and 2 months after completion of treatment, the patient underwent uncomplicated robotic-assisted utero-ovarian anatomic repositioning in the pelvis with cervicovaginal anastomosis. Chromopertubation confirmed tubal patency.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Restoration of normal pelvic anatomy and resumption of reproductive physiology.

RESULTS

At her 4-month postoperative visit, the cervix and vagina were normal in appearance. The patient reported the return of spontaneous menses and sexual activity without complications.

CONCLUSION

This case is unique because of the presence of bulky intramural uterine fibroids. The described technique may be useful for selected cancer patients who desire to carry a pregnancy after pelvic radiation for cancer treatment, and demonstrates that patients considering utero-ovarian transposition need not be excluded solely on the basis of the presence of uterine fibroids.

Knowledge of fertility and perception of fertility treatment among adults with sickle cell disease (KNOW FERTILITY)

Introduction

This study assessed fertility knowledge in adults with sickle cell disease using the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale and Fertility Treatment Perception Survey and compared knowledge scores in respondents with sickle cell disease to previously reported unaffected cohorts.

Methods

This cross-sectional study surveyed adults over age 18 with sickle cell disease at an adult sickle cell disease center using a 35-question survey addressing infertility risk factor knowledge and perceptions of fertility treatment. Analyses included summary statistics for continuous and categorical variables, univariate linear regression, and Mann-Whitney U tests for group comparisons of Fertility Knowledge Scale scores. Fertility Treatment Perception Survey scores were measured by medians of the two positive statements and four negative statements to generate separate positive and negative treatment belief scores. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 for all analyses.

Results

Ninety-two respondents (71 female, 21 male) with median age of 32 years (IQR: 25.0, 42.5) completed the survey between October 2020-May 2021. Sixty-five percent of respondents reported taking sickle cell disease treatment and 18% reported refusing at least one sickle cell disease treatment due to fertility concerns. The mean Fertility Knowledge Score was 49% (SD: 5.2), lower than reported in an international cohort (57% vs. 49%, p = 0.001), and higher than in a cohort of reproductive-aged Black women in the USA (49% vs. 38%, p = 0.001). Less than 50% of respondents correctly identified common infertility risk factors including sexually transmitted infections, advanced age, and obesity. Mean positive fertility perception score was 3 (IQR 3, 4), and negative fertility perception score was 3.5 (IQR 3, 4). Factors associated with agreement with negative fertility perception statements included: trying to conceive, refusing sickle cell disease treatment, and undergoing fertility treatment.

Discussion

Opportunities exist to improve knowledge of infertility risk factors among adults with sickle cell disease. This study raises the possibility that nearly one in five adults with sickle cell disease refuse SCD treatment or cure due to infertility concerns. Education about common infertility risks factors needs to be addressed alongside disease- and treatment- associated fertility risks.

Expecting more: the case for incorporating fertility services into comprehensive sickle cell disease care

Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are not yet systematically available to people with sickle cell disease or their parents. Fertility care for these groups requires addressing sickle cell disease-associated infertility risks, fertility preservation options, pregnancy possibilities and outcomes, and, when needed, infertility treatment. People with a chance of having a child with sickle cell disease can use in-vitro fertilisation with preimplantation genetic testing to conceive a child unaffected by sickle cell disease. Also, parents of children with sickle cell disease can use this technology to identify embryos to become potential future matched sibling donors for stem cell transplant. In the USA, disparities in fertility care for the sickle cell disease community are especially stark. Universal screening of newborn babies' identifies sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait, guidelines direct preconception genetic carrier screening, and standard-of-care fertility preserving options exist. However, potentially transformative treatments and cures for patients with sickle cell disease are not used due to iatrogenic infertility concerns. In diversely resourced care settings, obstacles to providing fertility care to people affected by sickle cell disease persist. In this Viewpoint, we contend that fertility care should be incorporated into the comprehensive care model for sickle cell disease, supporting alignment of treatment goals with reproductive life plans and delivering on the promise of individualised high-quality care for people with sickle cell disease and their families. We consider the obligation to provide fertility care in light of medical evidence, with acknowledgment of formidable obstacles to optimising care, and powerful historical and ethical considerations.

A multidisciplinary pediatric oncofertility team improves fertility preservation and counseling across 7 years

BACKGROUND

Oncofertility is a developing field of increasing importance, particularly in pediatric oncology, where most patients are likely to survive long-term and have not yet had the opportunity to have children.

AIMS

We performed a quality improvement initiative to increase our rates of fertility preservation counseling and referral through the implementation of a pediatric oncofertility team, and we report outcomes 7 years following implementation of our initiative.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We compare our baseline oncofertility survey to 44 post-intervention survey respondents and electronic medical record documentation for 149 patients treated in 2019. Ninety-five percent of post-intervention survey respondents recalled fertility counseling (baseline 70%, p = .004) and 89.3% were appropriately referred for fertility preservation (baseline 50%, p = .017). Counseling was documented in 60.4% of charts; 81% of patients analyzed by chart review were appropriately referred for fertility preservation. Fertility preservation outcomes differed by sex assigned at birth.

CONCLUSION

Creation of an oncofertility team produced improvements in fertility counseling and fertility preservation referral across an extended period of time.

Preconception ovarian reserve and placenta-mediated pregnancy complications among infertile women

RESEARCH QUESTION

Are preconception ovarian reserve markers, such as Anti-Mullerian hormone and antral follicle count, associated with preeclampsia and placenta mediated pregnancy complications among women with unexplained infertility who conceive with superovulation?

DESIGN

This is a secondary analysis of women with unexplained infertility who had a singleton live birth after enrollment in the Analysis of Multiple Intrauterine Gestations after Ovarian Stimulation (AMIGOS) trial that randomized couples to superovulation with letrozole, clomiphene, or gonadotropins with insemination for up to 4 cycles.

RESULTS

Compared to controls (N = 156), women who developed preeclampsia (N = 17) had lower Anti-Mullerian hormone levels (2.24 ± 1.20 vs. 2.89 ± 2.32, p = 0.07) and lower antral follicle count (18 ± 7.67 vs. 21 ± 11.43, p = 0.16); though these differences were not statistically significant. There was no relationship between Anti-Mullerian hormone (OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.76-1.25) or antral follicle count (OR: 0.98, 95% CI 0.93-1.04) with preeclampsia and between Anti-Mullerian hormone (OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.83-1.17) and antral follicle count (OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.97-1.04) with placenta medicated pregnancy complications after adjusting for age, BMI and race.

CONCLUSIONS

Preconception ovarian reserve markers are not associated with preeclampsia and placenta mediated pregnancy complications among women with unexplained infertility who conceive with superovulation with insemination.

Trainee-Led Quality Improvement Project to Improve Fertility Preservation Counseling for Patients With Cancer

PURPOSE

Oncofertility counseling regarding the reproductive risks associated with cancer therapy is essential for quality cancer care. We aimed to increase the rate of oncofertility counseling for patients of reproductive age (18-40 years) with cancer who were initiating systemic therapy at the Johns Hopkins Cancer Center from a baseline rate of 37% (25 of 68, June 2019-January 2020) to 70% by February 2021.

METHODS

We formed an interprofessional, multidisciplinary team as part of the ASCO Quality Training Program. We obtained data from the electronic medical record and verified data with patients by phone. We surveyed patients, oncologists, and fertility specialists to identify barriers. After considering a prioritization matrix, we implemented Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles.

RESULTS

We identified the following improvement opportunities: (1) oncologist self-reported lack of knowledge about counseling and local fertility preservation options and (2) lack of a standardized referral mechanism to fertility services. During the first PDSA cycle (February 2020-August 2020, disrupted by COVID-19), we introduced the initiative to increase oncofertility counseling at faculty meetings. From September 2020 to November 2020, we implemented a second PDSA cycle: (1) educating and presenting the initiative at Oncology Grand Rounds, (2) distributing informative pamphlets to oncologists and patients, and (3) implementing an electronic medical record order set. In the third PDSA cycle (December 2020-February 2021), we redesigned the order set to add information (eg, contact information for fertility coordinator) to the patient after-visit summary. Postimplementation (September 2020-February 2021), counseling rates increased from 37% to 81% (38 of 47).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate how a trainee-led, patient-centered initiative improved oncofertility care. Ongoing work focuses on ensuring sustainability and assessing the quality of counseling.

Diminished ovarian reserve in young women with sickle cell anemia

Women with sickle cell anemia (SCA) have higher rates of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) than age-matched controls. Pecker et al report a small study of patients with SCA that compares ovarian reserve in patients after stem cell transplant, on therapy with hydroxyurea (HU), and on supportive care. As expected, patients who received transplants have severe DOR. About one-third of patients on HU have DOR, while DOR was absent in patients on supportive care. Whether this reflects an impact of HU or is a biomarker of severe disease remains to be established in a larger study.

Installing oncofertility programs for breast cancer in limited versus optimum resource settings: Empirical data from 39 surveyed centers in Repro-Can-OPEN Study Part I & II

PURPOSE

As a further step to elucidate the actual diverse spectrum of oncofertility practices for breast cancer around the globe, we present and discuss the comparisons of oncofertility practices for breast cancer in limited versus optimum resource settings based on data collected in the Repro-Can-OPEN Study Part I & II.

METHODS

We surveyed 39 oncofertility centers including 14 in limited resource settings from Africa, Asia & Latin America (Repro-Can-OPEN Study Part I), and 25 in optimum resource settings from the United States, Europe, Australia and Japan (Repro-Can-OPEN Study Part II). Survey questions covered the availability of fertility preservation and restoration options offered to young female patients with breast cancer as well as the degree of utilization.

RESULTS

In the Repro-Can-OPEN Study Part I & II, responses for breast cancer and calculated oncofertility scores showed the following characteristics: (1) higher oncofertility scores in optimum resource settings than in limited resource settings especially for established options, (2) frequent utilization of egg freezing, embryo freezing, ovarian tissue freezing, GnRH analogs, and fractionation of chemo- and radiotherapy, (3) promising utilization of oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM), (4) rare utilization of neoadjuvant cytoprotective pharmacotherapy, artificial ovary, and stem cells reproductive technology as they are still in preclinical or early clinical research settings, (5) recognition that technical and ethical concerns should be considered when offering advanced and innovative oncofertility options.

CONCLUSIONS

We presented a plausible oncofertility best practice model to guide oncofertility teams in optimizing care for breast cancer patients in various resource settings.

Fertility preservation for pediatric patients with hemoglobinopathies: Multidisciplinary counseling needed to optimize outcomes

Hemoglobinopathies are autosomal recessive disorders that occur when genetic mutations negatively impact the function of hemoglobin. Common hemoglobinopathies that are clinically significant include sickle cell disease, alpha thalassemia, and beta thalassemia. Advancements in disease-modifying and curative treatments for the common hemoglobinopathies over the past thirty years have led to improvements in patient quality of life and longevity for those who are affected. However, the diseases, their treatments and cures pose infertility risks, making fertility preservation counseling and treatment an important part of the contemporary comprehensive patient care. Sickle cell disease negatively impacts both male and female infertility, primarily by testicular failure and decreased ovarian reserve, respectively. Fertility in both males and females with beta thalassemia major are negatively impacted by iron deposition due to chronic blood transfusions. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is currently the only curative treatment for SCD and transfusion dependent beta thalassemia. Many of the conditioning regimens for HSCT contain chemotherapeutic agents with known gonadotoxicity and whole-body radiation. Although most clinical studies on toxicity and impact of HSCT on long-term health do not evaluate fertility, gonadal failure is common. Male fertility preservation modalities that exist prior to gonadotoxic treatment include sperm banking for pubertal males and testicular cryopreservation for pre-pubertal boys. For female patients, fertility preservation options include oocyte cryopreservation and ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Oocyte cryopreservation requires controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) with ten to fourteen days of intensive monitoring and medication administration. This is feasible once the patient has undergone menarche. Follicular growth is monitored via transvaginal or transabdominal ultrasound, and hormone levels are monitored through frequent blood work. Oocytes are then harvested via a minimally invasive approach under anesthesia. Complications of COH are more common in patients with hemoglobinopathies. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome creates a greater risk to patients with underlying vascular, pulmonary, and renal injury, as they may be less able to tolerate fluids shifts. Thus, it is critical to monitor patients undergoing COH closely with close collaboration between the hematology team and the reproductive endocrinology team. Counseling patients and families about future fertility must take into consideration the patient's disease, treatment history, and planned treatment, acknowledging current knowledge gaps.

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation in young females with cancer and its impact on ovarian follicle density

BACKGROUND

Cancer therapy in young females results in irreversible damage to their ovaries potentially leading to premature ovarian failure (POF) and infertility. Ovarian follicle density (FD) serves as a key predictor of reproductive potential for a woman. FD is significantly reduced after cryopreservation in adult women with cancer. FD in young females with cancer has not been investigated. The specific aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of ovarian tissue cyropreservation (OTC) in young females with cancer by evaluating its impact on FD.

METHODS

An IRB approved prospective human and animal trial enrolled girls (ages 6-18 years) with cancer at high risk for POF from July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2018. All participants underwent pre-operative ultrasounds evaluating their ovaries.  Following a normal ultrasound, each patient underwent a left ovarian tissue harvest prior to cancer therapy. The ovarian tissue was sectioned for use in pathologic analysis, fertility preservation and xenotransplantation before and after cryopreservation. Comparative statistical analyses of the means of FD before and after cryopreservation were implemented using mixed regression modeling that accounted for the correlation among samples from the same patient and differences in age.

RESULTS

Six girls were enrolled (mean, 12 years; median, 13 years, range, 6-17 years). Pathologic analysis was carried out in all viable grafts and ovarian follicle densities were determined. Mean ovarian follicle density (+/- SEM) before cryopreservation was 50.5 +/- 4.26 follicles/mm² and after cryopreservation was 44.1 +/- 4.25 follicles/mm², p < 0.001. Following cryopreservation, on average the ovarian tissue retained 89.0.% of the FD of paired fresh samples (95% CI 82.8%, 95.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

FD in young females with cancer is significantly reduced following OTC. However, the degree of reduction may be less than that reported in adult women. This is the first study in adolescent girls to provide histologic evidence of preservation of ovarian follicle density and potential efficacy of the ovarian tissue cryopreservation strategy.  By providing this evidence base, the potential benefit to young females with cancer and their family may be prognostically and clinically significant.

Teaming in the contemporary fertility clinic: creating a culture to optimize patient care

When a diverse group of individuals is working together in the contemporary fertility clinic to provide time-sensitive and complex care for patients, a high degree of coordination and collaboration must take place. When performed dynamically, this process is referred to as teaming. Although the positive impact of teamwork in health care settings has been well established in the literature, the concept of teaming has limited foundation in the clinic. This review will provide an overview of how teaming can be used to improve patient care in today's fertility clinics. Approaches to integrating teaming into the clinic that will be discussed include framing, the creation of a psychologically safe environment for staff input, and facilitating collaborative constructs to support teaming. Best practices to implement teaming and how to address challenges to teaming in today's clinical environment will also be addressed.

Natural vs. programmed cycles for frozen embryo transfer: study protocol for an investigator-initiated, randomized, controlled, multicenter clinical trial

Background

Randomized trials of assisted reproductive technology (ART) have been designed for outcomes of clinical pregnancy or live birth and have not been powered for obstetric outcomes such as preeclampsia, critical for maternal and fetal health. ART increasingly involves frozen embryo transfer (FET). Although there are advantages of FET, multiple studies have shown that risk of preeclampsia is increased with FET compared with fresh embryo transfer, and the reason for this difference is not clear. NatPro will compare the proportion of preeclampsia between two commonly used protocols for FET,modified natural and programmed cycle.

Methods

In this two-arm, parallel-group, multi-center randomized trial, NatPro will randomize 788 women to either modified natural or programmed FET and follow them for up to three FET cycles. Primary outcome will be the proportion of preeclampsia in women with a viable pregnancy assigned to a modified natural cycle FET (corpus luteum present) protocol compared to the proportion of preeclampsia in pregnant women assigned to a programmed FET (corpus luteum absent) protocol. Secondary outcomes will compare the proportion of live births and the proportion of preeclampsia with severe features between the protocols.

Conclusion

This study has a potential significant impact on millions of women who pursue ART to build their families. NatPro is designed to provide clinically relevant guidance to inform patients and clinicians regarding maternal risk with programmed and modified natural cycle FET protocols. This study will also provide accurate point estimates regarding the likelihood of live birth with programmed and modified natural cycle FET.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04551807. Registered on September 16, 2020

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-021-05637-3.

Predictive factors for fertility preservation in pediatric and adolescent girls with planned gonadotoxic treatment

PURPOSE

To characterize female pediatric and adolescent patients seen for fertility preservation consultation at an academic medical center and to describe the association between demographic or clinical factors and the use of fertility preservation treatment (FPT).

METHODS

This is a retrospective chart analysis of female pediatric and adolescent patients seen for fertility preservation consultation at an academic fertility center over a 14-year period from 2005 to 2019.

RESULTS

One hundred six females aged 3-21 years were seen for fertility preservation consultation with a mean age of 16.6 years. Diagnoses included hematologic malignancies (41.5%), gynecologic malignancies (9.4%), other malignancies (31.1%), non-malignant hematologic disease (14.2%), and non-malignant conditions (3.8%). Overall, 64.2% of subjects pursued fertility preservation, including oocyte cryopreservation (35.8%) and ovarian tissue cryopreservation (23.6%). Overall, age, minority race, diagnosis, time since diagnosis, and median household income were not significantly associated with odds of completing an FPT procedure. Among all patients, those who underwent gonadotoxic therapy prior to consultation had a lower odds of receiving FPT (OR= 0.24, 95% CI 0.10-0.55). Among patients without chemotherapy exposure, no factors were associated with FPT.

CONCLUSIONS

Among pediatric and adolescent patients at an academic center undergoing a fertility preservation consultation, there were no socioeconomic or clinical barriers to FPT use in those who had not yet undergone gonadotoxic therapy. The only factor that was negatively associated with odds of pursuing FPT was prior chemotherapy exposure.

The need for business in reproductive medicine

The business of medicine continues to be an area of growing importance, particularly in reproductive medicine. We provide a synthesis of salient concepts within the spectrum of business in medicine. The topics we review include finances and accounting; business operations as related to human resources, information technology (telemedicine), organizational governance, and practice models; insurance billing and contract negotiations; and the impact of health care policy on reproductive medicine.

Fertility-sparing Surgery for Patients with Cervical, Endometrial, and Ovarian Cancers

OBJECTIVE

Nearly 10% of the 1.3 million women living with a gynecologic cancer are aged <50 years. For these women, although their cancer treatment can be lifesaving, it's also life-altering because traditional surgical procedures can cause infertility and, in many cases, induce surgical menopause. For appropriately selected patients, fertility-sparing options can reduce the reproductive impact of lifesaving cancer treatments. This review will highlight existing recommendations as well as innovative research for fertility-sparing treatment in the 3 major gynecologic cancers.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

For early-stage cervical cancers, fertility-sparing surgeries include cold knife conization, simple hysterectomy with ovarian preservation, or radical trachelectomy with placement of a permanent cerclage. In locally advanced cervical cancer, ovarian transposition before radiation therapy can help preserve ovarian function. For endometrial cancers, fertility-sparing treatment includes progestin therapy with endometrial sampling every 3 to 6 months. After cancer regression, progestin therapy can be halted to allow attempts to conceive. Hysterectomy with ovarian preservation can also be considered, allowing for fertility using assisted reproductive technology and a gestational carrier. For ovarian cancers, fertility-sparing surgery includes unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy or bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (with lymphadenectomy and staging depending on tumor histology). With higher-risk histology or higher early-stage disease, adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended-however, this carries a 3% to 10% risk of ovarian failure. Use of oocyte or embryo cryopreservation in patients with early-stage ovarian malignancy remains an area of ongoing research.

CONCLUSION

Overall, fertility-sparing management of gynecologic cancers is associated with acceptable rates of progression-free survival and overall survival and is less life-altering than more radical surgical approaches.

Cost-effectiveness of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy for fresh donor oocyte cycles

Objective

To determine whether in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) is cost effective to achieve a live birth compared with IVF alone in fresh donor oocyte cycles.

Design

Theoretical cost-effectiveness study.

Setting

Not applicable.

Patient(s)

None.

Intervention(s)

Comparison between the cost of IVF with PGT-A vs. IVF alone to achieve a live birth. The model analyzed a hypothetical single fresh oocyte donor IVF cycle with PGT-A vs. IVF alone and followed the progression of a single embryo through the different decision nodes. Cost estimates assigned to each clinical event were based on data obtained from the literature and institutional costs.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Cost per live birth.

Result(s)

In the base-case analysis, IVF with PGT-A was not cost effective in fresh donor oocyte cycles when compared with IVF alone to achieve a live birth. The cycles using PGT-A cost an additional $6,018.66. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was found to be $119,606.59 per additional live birth achieved with IVF with PGT-A. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrated that IVF with PGT-A was not cost effective in nearly all iterations.

Conclusion(s)

PGT-A in fresh donor oocyte IVF cycles is not cost effective compared with IVF alone over a wide range of probabilities and costs.

Financial fluency: demystifying accounting and business planning for the reproductive medicine specialist

In today's ever-changing business climate, reproductive health specialists are realizing that financial fluency is key to growing and maintaining a successful practice. Although financial fundamentals such as accounting may seem complex, both academic and private practice reproductive specialists who understand these topics can benefit in making business decisions for their practices. We describe the key financial fundamentals that reproductive health specialists should know, including basic concepts of finance and accounting, payments and receivables, capital budgeting, and business planning, and interpreting balance sheets, income statements, and cash-flow statements.

Conservatively treated endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia/cancer: Risk of intrauterine synechiae

INTRODUCTION

To determine whether progestin type or number of dilation and curettage procedures (D&Cs) were associated with intrauterine synechiae (IS) or pregnancy outcomes in patients conservatively treated for endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN) or endometrial cancer (EC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated patients conservatively treated for EIN or EC from 2000 to 2017 at an academic center. IS were identified hysteroscopically. We calculated proportions for categorical variables and tested associations between D&C number, progestin, and pregnancy outcomes using Pearson chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. A post-hoc power analysis indicated sufficient power to detect livebirth.

RESULTS

We analyzed 54 patients, 15 with EIN (28 %) and 39 with EC (72 %), with a mean age of 34 ± 1.2 years. Progestin treatment types included megestrol acetate (MA) (n = 24), MA with levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LngIUD) (n = 10), MA followed by LngIUD (n = 3), and LngIUD alone (n = 6). Mean number of D&Cs was 3.9 ± 0.9. Overall, 53 subjects underwent hysteroscopy; 10 (19 %) had IS. When D&Cs were grouped into 0-2, 3-4 and ≥5, each increase in D&C group had a 2.9 higher odds of IS (OR: 2.91, p = 0.04, CI: 1.05-10.02). LngIUD was associated with a nonsignificant 46 % decrease in the odds of IS (OR: 0.54, p = 0.66, CI: 0.08-2.87). Twenty-two women attempted pregnancy; 14 women achieved a total of 20 pregnancies and 9 women had total of 15 livebirths (41 % livebirth rate). The number of D&Cs and progestin treatment type were not associated with pregnancy outcomes.

DISCUSSION

Among 54 patients conservatively treated for EC/EIN, nearly 20 % developed IS. However, hysteroscopic and/or fertility treatments may improve pregnancy outcomes.

Embryo cryopreservation and utilization in the United States from 2004-2013

Objective

To evaluate the quantity and use of embryos cryopreserved at assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics in the United States from 2004 through 2013 and to characterize trends in ART cycles in which all embryos were cryopreserved.

Design

Retrospective analysis.

Setting

Not applicable.

Patient(s)

Registry data from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology.

Intervention(s)

Historical cohort of U.S. ART cycles reported to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinical Outcomes Reporting System between 2004 and 2013.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Number of embryos cryopreserved and factors associated with having cryopreserved embryos.

Result(s)

The percentage of fresh cycles in which all embryos were frozen increased dramatically each year after 2010: 15.6% (2010), 19.9% (2011), 30.7% (2012), and 40.7% (2013). During 10 years, 1,954,548 embryos were cryopreserved and 717,345 embryos were transferred. In freeze-only cycles from 2004 to 2013, there was a significant increase in the percentage of women with diminished ovarian reserve (19.9% to 34.1%) and in those who used preimplantation genetic testing (3.2% to 6.9%). During the 10-year period, there were 294,575 fresh cycles with embryo transfer and at least one embryo cryopreserved. Overall, 52.5% (n = 154,543) did not undergo a subsequent frozen embryo transfer, 29.5% (n = 40,462) were left with no frozen embryos, 50.4% (n = 68,875) had one–five embryos, and 20.0% (n = 27,396) had ≥six. Factors associated with having excess embryos included donor oocyte cycles and increased antimüllerian hormone levels.

Conclusion(s)

There has been a sharp increase in U.S. ART cycles in which all embryos are frozen and this may result in more embryos in storage.

Unmasking catamenial hemoptysis in the era of CFTR modulator therapy

BACKGROUND

Thoracic endometriosis syndrome (TES) is a rare condition that occurs in women when endometriosis implants into the thoracic cavity. Catamenial hemoptysis, the occurrence of hemoptysis with menstruation, is a recognized clinical manifestation of TES commonly treated with hormonal therapy.

CASE SUMMARY

We present the first documented case describing the recrudescence of catamenial hemoptysis in the setting of Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor administration in a 25-year-old woman with cystic fibrosis (CF).

DISCUSSION

We review the literature on TES, pharmacologic management, and reported cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drug interactions. We propose that our patient's recrudescence of catamenial hemoptysis was secondary to a drug-drug interaction between Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor and oral contraceptive therapy.

CONCLUSION

Our case suggests that women with CF who have catamenial hemoptysis and a genetic mutation approved for Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor or Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor can be managed effectively with either CFTR modulator and hormonal contraceptive therapy.

Understanding Patients' Knowledge and Feelings Regarding Their Cryopreserved Ovarian Tissue: A Qualitative Interviewing Study

Purpose: For prepubertal girls, or when gonadotoxic treatment is urgent, ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) represents the only option for fertility preservation. We sought to determine patients' knowledge and feelings about their cryopreserved ovarian tissue. Methods: We conducted qualitative interviews with women aged 18 years or older who underwent OTC at our academic fertility center between 2006 and 2017. Subjects were recruited by phone and participated in a single telephone interview using a standardized guide. Interviews were performed until data saturation was reached. Atlas.ti software was used for content analysis. Results: We interviewed eight women with a mean age of 25.8 ± 6.1 years (range, 19-37 years). The mean age at OTC was 20.4 ± 7.5 years (range, 13-35 years). Indications for fertility preservation included hematologic cancer/disease (4/8) or gynecological cancer/BRCA2 positive (4/8). Most patients (7/8) desired future fertility. Although half of the interviewees understood the OTC procedure, only two knew that the tissue can be used for future fertility and only one was aware of the benefits for vasomotor symptoms. Five subjects expressed positive emotions regarding OTC; one felt angry that the decision was made by her parents and two were concerned that OTC might not have been a good choice. However, most subjects (5/8) expressed a desire to better understand OTC and most (5/8) wished for more education about it. Conclusion: This study identifies a significant knowledge gap among patients with cryopreserved ovarian tissue about its uses and benefits as well as a strong desire among these women for improved education about this fertility preservation modality.

Lower antimüllerian hormone is associated with lower oocyte yield but not live-birth rate among women with obesity

BACKGROUND

Antimüllerian hormone is produced by small antral follicles and reflects ovarian reserve. Obesity is associated with lower serum antimüllerian hormone, but it is unclear whether lower levels of antimüllerian hormone in women with obesity reflect lower ovarian reserve.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether lower antimüllerian hormone in women with obesity undergoing in vitro fertilization is associated with oocyte yield and live-birth rate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System database of 13,316 women with obesity and 16,579 women with normal body mass index undergoing their first autologous in vitro fertilization with fresh transfers between 2012 and 2014. Normal body mass index was defined as body mass index 18.5-24.9 kg/m², and obesity was defined as body mass index ≥30 kg/m². Subjects with obesity were stratified as those with class 1 obesity (body mass index, 30.0-34.9 kg/m²), class 2 obesity (body mass index, 35.0-39.9 kg/m²), and class 3 obesity (body mass index, ≥40 kg/m²) based on the World Health Organization body mass index guidelines. Antimüllerian hormone levels were stratified as normal (>1.1 ng/mL), low (0.16-1-1 ng/mL), and undetectable (≤0.16 ng/mL). Multivariable modeling was used to assess oocyte yield using linear regression with a logarithmic transformation and odds of live birth using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Women with obesity were older (36.0 ± 4.8 vs 35.5 ± 4.8, P < .001), had lower antimüllerian hormone (1.8 ± 2.0 ng/mL vs 2.1 ± 2.0 ng/mL, P < .001), and had fewer oocytes retrieved (11.9 ± 7.3 vs 12.8 ± 7.7, P < .001) than women with normal body mass index. Lower oocyte yield was observed among women with obesity and normal antimüllerian hormone levels compared to women with normal body mass index and normal antimüllerian hormone levels (13.6 ± 7.3 vs 15.8 ± 8.1, P < .001). No difference in oocyte yield was observed among women with obesity and low antimüllerian hormone levels (P = .58) and undetectabl antimüllerian hormone (P = .11) compared to women with normal BMI and similar antimüllerian hormone levels. Among women with a body mass index ≥30 kg/m², antimüllerian hormone levels were associated with the number of oocytes retrieved (β = 0.069; standard error, 0.005; P < .001) but not live-birth rate (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.93-1.04, P = .57).

CONCLUSION

Lower antimüllerian hormone in infertile women with obesity appears to reflect lower ovarian reserve, as antimüllerian hormone is associated with lower oocyte yield. Despite lower oocyte yield, lower antimüllerian hormone was not associated with lower live-birth rate among women with obesity.

Navigating the body of literature assessing BRCA1/2 mutations and markers of ovarian function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Twelve percent of women in the USA will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, and that risk increases to 80% if they carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. BRCA1/2 mutations are thought to potentially affect ovarian reserve and/or fertility.

METHODS

PubMed and PubMed Central were searched for publications on ovarian reserve-related outcomes (i.e., AMH and response to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) protocols) that were reported in relation to BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 mutations from 1950 through May 2019. A meta-analysis was conducted to create forest plots and summary effect measures using Review Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

This article reviews the 16 qualifying publications. There were several fundamental methodological differences in the study designs and outcome details reported in AMH studies. Summary statistics found no difference in AMH levels between BRCA1/2+ women as compared with controls (Z overall test effects p ≥ 0.45). Regarding responses to COH, there were overall non-significantly fewer total and mature numbers of oocytes retrieved in BRCA1/2+ cases as compared with controls (meta-analysis Z overall test effects p ≥ 0.40).

CONCLUSIONS

While the summary measures indicate no significant differences in AMH levels between BRCA1/2+ cases and controls, readers should be aware that there are significant methodological differences in the AMH reports. Additionally, the response to COH protocols does not seem to be significantly lower in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers in the existing literature. Continued research on both of these clinical parameters would be beneficial for patient counseling.

Clinico-pathologic features, treatment and outcomes of breast cancer during pregnancy or the post-partum period

PURPOSE

Breast cancer during pregnancy (BC-P) or the first year post-partum (BC-PP) is rare and whether it differs from breast cancer (BC) in young women not associated with pregnancy is uncertain.

METHODS

We queried our institutional database for BC-P and BC-PP cases and matched controls with BC not associated with pregnancy diagnosed between January 1, 1985 and December 31, 2013. We performed two parallel retrospective cohort studies evaluating clinico-pathologic features, treatment and outcomes for BC-P and BC-PP cases compared to their controls.

RESULTS

In our population of 65 BC-P cases, 135 controls for BC-P cases, 75 BC-PP cases and 145 controls for BC-PP cases, high grade and estrogen receptor-negativity were more frequent in both case groups than their controls. Among those with stage I-III BC, patterns of local therapy were similar for both case groups and their controls, with the majority undergoing surgery and radiation. Over three-fourths of those with stage I-III BC received chemotherapy. BC-P cases tolerated chemotherapy well, with the majority receiving doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide every 3 weeks. On multivariate analyses of those with stage I-III BC, BC-P cases had non-significantly higher hazards of recurrence and death compared to their controls, while BC-PP cases had non-significantly lower hazards of recurrence and death compared to their controls.

CONCLUSION

BC-P and BC-PP were associated with adverse clinic-pathologic features in our population. However, we did not observe inferior outcomes for BC-P or BC-PP compared to controls, likely due to receipt of aggressive multi-modality therapy.

Innovations in assisted reproductive technologies: impact on contemporary donor egg practice and future advances

Innovations in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have driven progress in the donor egg field since the birth of the first baby derived from a donor egg in 1983. Over time, donor oocytes have become an increasingly used option for patients unable to conceive with autologous oocytes. In donor egg, the unique separation of the oocyte source and recipient uterus has created a model that has propelled advances in ART. Progressive ART innovations that have optimized the oocyte donor and resulting embryo include the following: evaluation of ovarian reserve, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation regimens that reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, blastocyst culture, oocyte cryopreservation, and preimplantation genetic testing. For donor egg recipients, methods to optimize the endometrium to maximize implantation include endometrial receptivity testing, immunologic donor-recipient matching, and increased understanding of the uterine microbiome.

Risks associated with fertility preservation for women with sickle cell anemia

OBJECTIVE

To highlight the risk of complications among women with sickle cell anemia (SCA) receiving fertility preservation treatment (FPT) before hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT).

DESIGN

Single-center case series.

SETTING

Academic fertility center.

PATIENT(S)

Women aged 15-32 years with SCA undergoing FPT before HSCT.

INTERVENTION(S)

Retrospective, systematic review.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

FPT modality, SCA complications during FPT.

RESULT(S)

Over an 8-year period (2009-2017), seven women with SCA ages 15-32 years (mean 28.5 years) underwent FPT with embryo cryopreservation (n = 1), oocyte cryopreservation (n = 4), and ovarian tissue cryopreservation (n = 2). The five women subjects who underwent oocyte or embryo cryopreservation were treated with an antagonist controlled ovarian hyperstimulation protocol and individualized gonadotropin dosing. The trigger medications included leuprolide acetate (n = 2), and human chorionic gonadotropin (n = 3). Most patients (n = 5) received a disease-modifying therapy for SCA (hydroxyurea or chronic transfusions) before FPT. Three patients experienced periprocedural SCA complications that included life-threatening respiratory failure, painful crisis requiring interruption of a stimulation cycle, and severe postharvest painful crisis.

CONCLUSION(S)

Women with SCA may choose to undergo diverse FPT strategies before HSCT and are at risk for serious SCA-related complications. Evidence-based strategies to mitigate SCA-related morbidity and to optimize fertility preservation outcomes are needed.

Does theFMR1 gene affect IVF success?

FMR1 CGG trinucleotide repeat expansions are associated with Fragile X syndrome (full mutations) and primary ovarian insufficiency (premutation range); the effect of FMR1 on the success of fertility treatment is unclear. The effect of FMR1 CGG repeat lengths on IVF outcomes after ovarian stimulation was reviewed. PubMed was searched for studies on IVF-related outcomes reported by FMR1 trinucleotide repeat length published between 2002 and December 2017. For women with CGG repeats in the normal (<45 CGG), intermediate range (45-54 CGG), or both, research supports a minimal effect on IVF outcomes, including pregnancy rates; although one study reported lower oocyte yields after IVF stimulation in women with lower CGG repeat lengths and normal ovarian reserve. Meta-analysis revealed no association within subcategories of normal repeat length (<45 CGG) and IVF pregnancy rates (summary OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.15). Premutation carriers (CGG 55-200) may have reduced success with IVF treatment (lower oocyte yield) than women with a normal CGG repeat length or a full mutation, although findings are inconsistent. Direct implications of the repeat length on inheritance and the risk of Fragile X syndrome have been observed. Patients may require clinical and psychological counselling, and further preimplantation genetic testing options should be considered. Thus, there are clinical and psychological counseling implications for patients and potential further patient decisions regarding preimplantation genetic testing options.

Comparison of sonohysterography to hysterosalpingogram for tubal patency assessment in a multicenter fertility treatment trial among women with polycystic ovary syndrome

PURPOSE

To compare saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS) versus hysterosalpingogram (HSG) for confirmation of tubal patency.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, Pregnancy in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome II (PPCOS II). Seven hundred fifty infertile women (18-40 years old) with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were randomized to up to 5 cycles of letrozole or clomiphene citrate. Prior to enrollment, tubal patency was determined by HSG, the presence of free fluid in the pelvis on SIS, laparoscopy, or recent intrauterine pregnancy. Logistic regression was conducted in patients who ovulated with clinical pregnancy as the outcome and HSG or SIS as the key independent variable.

RESULTS

Among women who ovulated, 414 (66.9%) had tubal patency confirmed by SIS and 187 (30.2%) had at least one tube patent on HSG. Multivariable analysis indicated that choice of HSG versus SIS did not have a significant relationship on likelihood of clinical pregnancy, after adjustment for treatment arm, BMI, duration of infertility, smoking, and education (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.77, 1.67, P = 0.52). Ectopic pregnancy occurred more often in women who had tubal patency confirmed by HSG compared to SIS (2.8% versus 0.6%, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort of women with PCOS, there was no significant difference in clinical pregnancy rate between women who had tubal patency confirmed by HSG versus SIS. SIS is an acceptable imaging modality for assessment of tubal patency in this population.

Reproductive ovarian testing and the alphabet soup of diagnoses: DOR, POI, POF, POR, and FOR

There are large variations in the number of oocytes within each woman, and biologically, the total quantity is at its maximum before the woman is born. Scientific knowledge is limited about factors controlling the oocyte pool and how to measure it. Within fertility clinics, there is no uniform agreement on the diagnostic criteria for each common measure of ovarian reserve in women, and thus, studies often conflict. While declining oocyte quantity/quality is a normal physiologic occurrence as women age, some women experience diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) much earlier than usual and become prematurely infertile. Key clinical features of DOR are the presence of regular menstrual periods and abnormal-but-not-postmenopausal ovarian reserve test results. A common clinical challenge is counseling patients with conflicting ovarian reserve test results. The clinical diagnosis of DOR and the interpretation of ovarian reserve testing are complicated by changing lab testing options and processing for anti-mullerian hormone since 2010. Further, complicating the diagnostic and research scenario is the existence of other distinct yet related clinical terms, specifically premature ovarian failure, primary ovarian insufficiency, poor ovarian response, and functional ovarian reserve. The similarities and differences between the definitions of DOR with each of these four terms are reviewed. We recommend greater medical community involvement in terminology decisions, and the addition of DOR-specific medical subject-heading search terms.

Recent advances in the field of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and opportunities for research

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to summarize the latest advances and successes in the field of ovarian tissue cryopreservation while identifying gaps in current knowledge that suggest opportunities for future research.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines for all relevant full-text articles in PubMed published in English that reviewed or studied historical or current advancements in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and auto-transplantation techniques.

RESULTS

Ovarian tissue auto-transplantation in post-pubertal women is capable of restoring fertility with over 80 live births currently reported with a corresponding pregnancy rate of 23 to 37%. The recently reported successes of live births from transplants, both in orthotopic and heterotopic locations, as well as the emerging methods of in vitro maturation (IVM), in vitro culture of primordial follicles, and possibility of in vitro activation (IVA) suggest new fertility options for many women and girls. Vitrification, as an ovarian tissue cryopreservation technique, has also demonstrated successful live births and may be a more cost-effective method to freezing with less tissue injury. Further, transplantation via the artificial ovary with an extracellular tissue matrix (ECTM) scaffolding as well as the effects of sphingosine-1-phosphate (SIP) and fibrin modified with heparin-binding peptide (HBP), heparin, and a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have demonstrated important advancements in fertility preservation. As a fertility preservation method, ovarian tissue cryopreservation and auto-transplantation are currently considered experimental, but future research may pave the way for these modalities to become a standard of care for women facing the prospect of sterility from ovarian damage.

Use of various gonadotropin and biosimilar formulations for in vitro fertilization cycles: results of a worldwide Web-based survey

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to identify trends in gonadotropin therapy in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment worldwide.

METHODS

Retrospective evaluation utilizing the results of a Web-based survey, IVF-Worldwide ( www.IVF-worldwide.com ) was performed.

RESULTS

Three hundred fourteen centers performing a total of 218,300 annual IVF cycles were evaluated. Respondents representing 62.2% of cycles (n = 135,800) did not believe there was a difference between urinary and recombinant gonadotropins in terms of efficacy and live birth rate. Of the respondents, 67.3% (n = 146,800) reported no difference between recombinant and urinary formulations in terms of short-term safety and risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. In terms of long-term safety using human urinary gonadotropins, 50.6% (n = 110,400) of respondents believe there are potential long-term risks including prion disease. For 95.3% of units (n = 208,000), the clinician was the decision maker determining which specific gonadotropins are used for IVF. Of the units, 62.6% (n = 136,700) identified efficacy as the most important factor in deciding which gonadotropin to prescribe. While most (67.3%, n = 146,800) were aware of new biosimilar recombinant FSH products entering the market, 92% (n = 201,000) reported they would like more information. A fraction of respondents (25.6%, n = 55,900) reported having experience with these new products, and of these, 80.3% (n = 46,200) reported that they were similar in efficacy as previously used gonadotropins in a similar patient group.

CONCLUSIONS

Respondents representing the majority of centers do not believe a difference exists between urinary and recombinant gonadotropins with respect to efficacy and live birth rates. While many are aware of new biosimilar recombinant FSH products entering the market, over 90% desire more information on these products.

Controlled ovarian stimulation and triggers in in vitro fertilization: protocol personalization key to optimize outcomes

The past four decades have delivered many advancements to improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. These include a delicate balance of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) without causing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a safe oocyte retrieval, fertilization and embryo culture, endometrial growth and receptivity to promote implantation, and luteal support to maintain the pregnancy. Contemporary IVF practice includes both the classic COH protocols as well as protocols for poor responders and those for specific patient populations. An assortment of agents have been developed and utilized in various combinations to improve COH outcomes and promote oocyte maturation while decreasing the risk of OHSS. Various protocols have evolved over time. Ideal practices involve selecting the optimal protocol for a personalized, patient-specific stimulation and trigger.

Hydronephrosis: A Rare Presentation of Uterine Didelphys with Obstructed Hemivagina and Ipsilateral Renal Anomaly

BACKGROUND

Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly syndrome is a Müllerian duct anomaly characterized by uterine didelphys, obstructed hemivagina, and ipsilateral renal anomalies.

CASE

A 12-year-old girl with a history of right renal agenesis presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain, dysuria, and urinary retention. Imaging identified a uterine didelphys with a large obstructed right hemivagina compressing the left ureter, causing hydronephrosis. She underwent vaginal septum resection for curative treatment.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

In female patients who present with abdominal pain and a history of renal abnormalities, obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly syndrome must be considered in the differential diagnosis. This consideration is important in preventing complications such as hydronephrosis seen in this patient.

Fertility Preservation: A Key Survivorship Issue for Young Women with Cancer

Fertility preservation in the young cancer survivor is recognized as a key survivorship issue by the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Thus, health-care providers should inform women about the effects of cancer therapy on fertility and should discuss the different fertility preservation options available. It is also recommended to refer women expeditiously to a fertility specialist in order to improve counseling. Women’s age, diagnosis, presence of male partner, time available, and preferences regarding use of donor sperm influence the selection of the appropriate fertility preservation option. Embryo and oocyte cryopreservation are the standard techniques used while ovarian tissue cryopreservation is new, yet promising. Despite the importance of fertility preservation for cancer survivors’ quality of life, there are still communication and financial barriers faced by women who wish to pursue fertility preservation.