Zygote versus embryo transfer: a prospective randomized multicenter trial.

PurposeTo determine the efficiency of transferring human zygotes as opposed to human day 2 or 3 embryos.MethodsA prospective, randomized, Multicenter trial. Patients were randomized into zygote or embryo transfer. Patients were prepared for oocyte retrieval using standardized protocols. Oocyte retrieval was performed under general anesthesia. Oocytes and spermatozoa were treated using standard laboratory techniques. All protocols were coordinated by the coordinating center.ResultsA total of 386 patients were included in the trial. Pregnancy rates were 36.5% after zygote transfer and 42% after embryo transfer. Implantation rates were equivalent (17%) in both groups.ConclusionsNo general difference was observed for zygote or embryo transfer. The results suggest that zygote transfer is a valid alternative to embryo transfer.