Predictive value of ultrasound-related scoring system on embryo development in early pregnancy after IVF/ICSI: An observation of embryonic quality

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the value of the ultrasound-related scoring system on pregnant patients receiving assisted reproductive technology (IVF/ICSI) and early pregnancy outcome. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 208 pregnant women receiving assisted reproductive technology (IVF/ICSI). The following ultrasound parameters were measured: gestational sac size, the proportion of the embryo and gestational sac (embryo/gestational sac), yolk sac size, and fetal cardiac activity. The above data were assigned according to the ongoing pregnancy rate (up to 14 weeks), and the score increased parallel to the pregnancy rate. All patients were grouped according to their scores. Results: Patients with a score of 4–5 had a low ongoing pregnancy rate of 14.29%, while patients with a score of 6–7 had an ongoing pregnancy rate of 55.56%. Surprisingly, patients with a score of 8–9 had an ongoing pregnancy rate of 97.22%. In addition, it was found that the ongoing pregnancy rate was 100% (36/36) in patients with a score of 9. Conversely, there was no ongoing pregnancy in patients with a score of 4. Conclusion: First, this scoring system is strongly associated with an ongoing pregnancy of over 14 weeks. Second, some reassurance can be given to patients with favorable ultrasound parameters, regardless of maternal age or previous pregnancy loss. Third, it would be meaningless to continue the pregnancy in patients with a score of 4, according to the scoring system. Fourth, patients without cardiac activity and embryos at days 33–35 after embryo transfer should discontinue the pregnancy, while patients with embryos should proceed with the pregnancy. Keywords: Gestational sac, Embryo/gestational sac, Yolk sac, Fetal cardiac activity, Ongoing pregnancy