Assisted reproductive technology strategies in uterus transplantation

Fertil Steril. 2019 Jul;112(1):19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.05.028.

Abstract

The development of assisted reproductive technology (ART) through four decades has led to offer the ultimate treatment for nearly all forms of infertility. The only remaining factor of childlessness however that still eludes ART and its routine variants are the absolute uterine infertility factors, for which the only option is an experimental approach, uterus transplantation. Progresses has been made over the past few years, and more are underway for simplifying the process notably for simplifying the uterus extraction step performed in the uterus donor. Furthermore, as the technique is being better mastered, the original indications for uterus transplantation, the congenital or acquired absence of the uterus, are now widened to also include incurable uterine fibrosis, or Asherman's syndrome. The ART-related practicalities of uterus transplantation, ovarian stimulation and uterine priming are being discussed in the present review.

Keywords: Uterus transplantation; endometrial receptivity; hormonal replacement; implantation rates.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Fertility
  • Graft Survival
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female / diagnosis
  • Infertility, Female / physiopathology
  • Infertility, Female / surgery*
  • Live Birth
  • Living Donors / supply & distribution
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Rate
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted* / adverse effects
  • Risk Factors
  • Tissue Donors / supply & distribution*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Uterus / transplantation*