Diagnostic Value of Uterine and Ovarian Vascular Color Doppler Parameters in Successful Embryo Implantation during In Vitro Fertilization Cycles

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.

2 Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.

4 Assistant Professor, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.

10.22038/ijogi.2025.82450.6203

Abstract

Introduction: In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the assisted reproductive technology methods, and endometrial receptivity is the key to successful IVF embryo implantation. The present study was conducted with aim to evaluate the association between successful embryo implantation in IVF cycles and the findings of color Doppler ultrasound of uterine and ovarian vessels.
Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted in 2023-2024, enrolling women with infertility problems who were candidates for IVF treatment. On the day of embryo transfer, all patients underwent Doppler ultrasound of uterine and ovarian vessels. The resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and endometrial thickness were recorded. The qualitative βhCG level on day 12 post-transfer was considered as the main outcome. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (version 27) and independent t and Fisher’s exact tests. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The mean resistance index of subendometrial uterine arteries was significantly different between the groups with positive and negative IVF outcomes (p=0.023). Only the RI of subendometrial uterine arteries weakly and non-significantly predicted IVF success (AUC=0.61, 95% CI: 0.427 – 0.680). These values (AUC and confidence interval 95%) reflect the diagnostic accuracy and power of this index to distinguish between successful and unsuccessful IVF outcomes, but show limited predictive accuracy.
Conclusion: The mean Doppler indices of uterine and ovarian arteries in infertile women who underwent IVF and achieved successful embryo implantation were lower compared to women who underwent IVF without successful implantation. However, only the resistance index of subendometrial vessels was significantly different and a weak predictor of IVF success and implantation outcome.

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