This study was designed to investigate the role of three-dimensional (3D) power Doppler sonography of the (sub-) endometrial area on the first day of ovarian stimulation in predicting the outcome of an in-vitro fertilization (IVF) programme. Among the 75 cycles analysed, the overall pregnancy rate was 20% (15/75) per cycle and 23.8% (15/63) per embryo transfer. Intra-observer variability of the colour histogram was checked in 14 patients with the results demonstrating a high level of agreement. Neither endometrial measurements nor uterine blood flow were correlated with the pregnancy rate. In contrast, all 3D indices were significantly lower in conception compared with non-conception cycles (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis found the subendometrial flow index to be the strongest predictive factor of IVF success among the tested sonographic parameters (P = 0.04). In conclusion, quantitative assessment of spiral artery blood flow may be of predictive value for implantation in IVF cycles even before ovarian stimulation therapy is started.

Objectives: Current weight estimation models do not consider the contribution of fetal soft tissue to fetal weight. We have investigated new weight estimation models that use a combination of conventional biometry and soft tissue parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 248 fetuses was performed using 3DUS to acquire standard biometry (BPD, AC, FDL), fractional arm volume (Avol), and fractional thigh volume (TVol) within 4 days of delivery. Multiple linear regression was used to develop a 'modified Hadlock' model (BPD, AC, FDL) and similar models that also included soft tissue parameters for predicting birth weight (BW). New models were prospectively applied in 55 pregnancies. Predicted and observed weights were compared and signed percent differences calculated. Mean and SD of % differences were taken as measures of systematic and random prediction errors, respectively. Proportion of subjects with predicted BW within 5 or 10% (inclusive) were compared using McNemar's test. Results: For the validation group, the mean maternal age was 27 ± 7.0 (SD) years. Introduction: For successful reproductive outcome embryo quality and endometrial receptivity are essential requirements. The definition of the latter, however, has stirred some controversy and the reason for the low implantation rate remains as yet unclear. Although several studies on intrauterine and ovarian blood flow have been reported results have been at best conflicting. Methods: The prospective study was designed to investigate the role of VEGF-concentration in serum and follicular fluid and the role of 2D/3D (Doppler) sonography of the ovaries in predicting conception in an in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) programme. Transvaginal 2D/3D (Doppler) sonography was performed in 102 patients on the day of oocyte retrieval. Primary outcome variable was the correlation between conception rate and sonographic as well as biochemical parameters. Results: As expected, significant correlation was found between ovarian volume, number of aspirated oocytes and serum estradiol concentration. In contrast, none of the sonographic parameters were correlated with reproductive outcome. Of note, VEGF concentration in serum but not in follicular fluid was significantly higher in conception than in non-conception cycles (p = 0.024). A serum VEGF cut-off level of 233 pg/ml is able to predict conception with a sensitivity of 65% and a specificity of 71%. Conclusion: In contrast to 2D/3D (Doppler) sonography serum VEGF levels may allow prediction of IVF success. Objectives: To evaluate three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound for verification of the position of micro-inserts after sterilization. Methods: Prospective study of 20 consecutive patients who had ESSURE devices inserted. All patients had an X-ray scan three months after insertion; if there was any doubt about position, hysterosalpingography was performed. 3D ultrasound by a different investigator preceded the radiography. OC107