F O R   P H Y S I C I A N S – resources
Assisted Reproductive Technology

Introduction Historical Perspective In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) Tubal Embryo or Zygote Transfers (TET/ZIFT) Micromanipulation: Assisted Fertilization Assisted Hatching Cryopreservation Third-Party Gametes/Gestational Carriers and ART The Future of ART

Learning Objectives Following this lecture, the practitioner will be able to: Understand current practices pertaining to assisted reproductive technology Describe ovarian stimulation protocols and procedures used in assisted reproductive technology Effectively educate patients regarding pregnancy rates with assisted reproductive technology

Introduction
Approximately one in ten couples of reproductive age are affected by infertility. This translates into approximately 6 million couples in the United States. The most common causes of infertility are attributed to tubal disease, ovulatory defects, endometriosis, male factor and unexplained infertility. Many of these disorders can be treated successfully with surgery, ovulation induction and/or intrauterine insemination, but in selected cases or in long-standing intractable infertility, assisted reproductive technology (ART) becomes the treatment of choice.