Purpose: To determine whether there was any difference inthe outcome of in vitro fertilization when retrieval of oocyteswas done 34 hr (group A) or 38 hr (group B) after hCGinjection.
Methods: A total of 170 patients with tubal failure wererandomized into either group A (83 patients) or group B(87 patients). They underwent in vitro fertilization accordingto described protocols and were compared with regard tothe frequency of spontaneous ovulation, number of oocytesretrieved, oocyte cumulus complex quality, embryo quality,and implantation and pregnancy rates.
Results: There was no significant difference for any of theparameters tested for in group A and group B.
Conclusions: HCG can be administered at any time withinthe time interval of 34 to 38 hr before retrieval of oocyteswithout affecting the results of in vitro fertilization.