Reproductive outcome after laparoscopic ovarian drilling

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the ovulatory performance and reproductive outcome after laparoscopic ovarian drilling using a harmonic scalpel in infertile women with clomiphene-resistant polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).Patients: Twenty clomiphene-resistant anovulatery women with PCOS underwent laparoscopic ovarian drilling between March 2005 and December 2006.Results: After surgery, LH serum levels and the LH/FSH ratio showed statistically significant reductions, and ovulation occurred spontaneously in 70% (14/20) of the patients. The pregnancy rate was 50% (10/20) in < 1 year. Within 4 months postoperatively, 50% of all pregnancies had occurred.Conclusion: Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is an effective treatment in women with clomiphene-resistant polycystic ovarian syndrome, yet without major complications associated with medical treatment, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and, plural gestations.