Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the effects of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) combined with pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) versus in-vitro fertilisation combined with other pre-natal diagnostic strategies on take-home rates, abortion rate, and congenital abnormality rate among couples undergoing in-vitro fertilisation.

Authors' recommendations: We found no reliable evidence to compare effects of PGD with other pre-natal diagnostic strategies on take home baby rates and congenital anomalies among couples undergoing IVF. We found no reliable evidence regarding diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of PGD for both chromosomal and genetic abnormalities, although case series have reported that missed diagnosis is rare. Controlled studies are needed to compare PGD versus conventional pre-natal diagnostic strategies among couples undergoing IVF. Studies should report on a standard set of pre-defined outcomes including take home baby rate per couple, details of neonatal examination, ante-natal testing rates and results and sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic technique. When considering the efficacy and safety of PGD, studies should account for differences in IVF technique. Until such time, the conclusions suggested by the identified studies should be regarded as tentative.

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.wihrd.soton.ac.uk

Year Published: 2001

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England

Organisation Name: Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development

Contact Address: Pauline King. Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development, Boldrewood Medical School, Bassett Crescent East, Highfield, Southampton. SO16 7PX Tel. +44 1703 595661 Fax +44 1703 595662

Copyright: Bazian Ltd, Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development