Transvaginal endoscopy: new technique evaluating female infertility. Three Mediterranean countries’ experiences

Seventy-eight women from five different gynaecology departments, with infertility problems, were investigated to rule out mechanical factors by the new technique of transvaginal endoscopy (TVE). Tubo-ovarian structures were visualised in 70% to 100% of the cases, diagnosed pelvic endometriosis ranged from 9% to 20%, and the overall frequency of adhesions was 20%. In 7-10% of the cases CO^sub 2^ laparoscopy was performed to verify the diagnosis made by TVE. The overall number of patients who avoided having to have CO^sub 2^ laparoscopy, by undergoing TVE, was 41/78 (51%). The learning experience of TVE from different departments in three Mediterranean countries demonstrates accurate results, a low cost procedure, very good acceptance by the patients, and minimal complication risks depending on the surgeon's experience and the selection of the patients.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]