Analgesia with remifentanil versus anesthesia with propofol-alfentanil for transvaginal oocyte retrieval: a randomized trial on their impact on in vitro fertilization outcome.

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of analgesia with remifentanil versus anesthesia with propofol and alfentanil on in vitro fertilization outcome.

Methods: The study included 58 women undergoing ultrasound transvaginal oocyte retrieval, who were randomized to receive either analgesia with remifentanil (n = 29) or anesthesia with propofol and alfentanil (n = 29). The subjects were compared for number of collected and matured oocytes, fertilization rate, cleavage rate, implantation rate, pregnancy rate, and embryo quality. Anesthesia related side effects and both patient and gynecologist satisfaction were recorded.

Results: There were no significant differences in collected oocytes, matured oocytes, fertilization and cleavage rate, embryo quality and implantation and pregnancy rate between the two groups. There was no difference regarding side effects and both patient and gynecologist satisfaction.

Conclusions: Analgesia with remifentanil compared with anesthesia with propofol and alfentanil, provided equally effective and safe anesthesia during ultrasound transvaginal oocyte retrieval.