Clinical Pregnancy Rate after Single Euploid Embryo Transfer is Age Independent

Abstract

BackgroundSingle embryo transfer (SET) is a proven option to achieve high pregnancy rates in young patients [1]. Introduction of PCR-based preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can become a basis to expand SET to the older patient population. Precise evaluation of the genetic status of embryos should facilitate accurate embryo selection for the transfer [2].ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare pregnancy rates after SET for patients under 38 y.o. and over 38 y.o. in PGT cycles.DesignA retrospective study of SNP PGT pregnancy outcome data from single embryo transfers was conducted to identify differences in clinical pregnancy for patients <38 y.o. and ≥38 y.o.Materials and Methods140 cycles of IVF treatment with PGT between January 2013 and June 2014 were included in the study. In all cases only one euploid embryo was selected for transfer. 63 IVF cycles (53 patients) were included in the young (<38 y.o.) patient group (average age - 33.45±3.31) and 77 IVF cycles (72 patients) in the older (≥38 y.o.) patient age group (average age - 40.22±1.85). The average number of embryos available for biopsy per case in the group of patient <38 y.o. was significantly higher than in the group of for patients ≥38 y.o.: 6.63±2.39 and 3.96±1.91 respectively, p<0.05.ResultsThe clinical pregnancy rate for patients <38 y.o. was 52.4% (33/63). The clinical pregnancy rate for patients ≥38 y.o. was 54.6%, (42/77). The difference in pregnancy rate between two groups was not statistically significant: p=0.968, χ2=0.065. 60 out of 63 SETs in the young patient group were elective SETs (two or more euploid embryos were available for transfer), while in the older patient group only 47 out of 77 SETs were elective SETs. Euploidy rate was statistically higher in young patient group than in older patient group: 55.14% and 38.35% respectively (p<0.05, χ2= 28.284).ConclusionsAnalysis of the data proved effectiveness of preimplantation genetic testing for infertile patients of advanced maternal age. Single embryo transfer in PGT cases can significantly decrease multiple gestation rate without compromising clinical pregnancy rate regardless of patient age.SupportNone.