The collection of human oocytes for in vitro fertilization. I. An instrument for maximizing oocyte recovery rate

An instrument has been devised specifically for the collection of mature oocytes at laparoscopy for the purpose of in vitro fertilization. The instrument was evaluated and the oocyte recovery rate was compared with that obtained with two other instruments, which had been in use previously, in a controlled trial over the same period of time. It was found that the newly devised instrument resulted in the recovery of all of the oocytes from 17 follicles in which aspiration was attempted. The oocyte recovery rate was significantly better with this instrument than with either of the two instruments previously used. It was also apparent that the finer-bore needle of the two instruments previously used was more effective for oocyte recovery. The new instrument is now in routine use for oocyte collection.