Three-Dimensional Automated Volume Calculation (Sonography-Based Automated Volume Count) versus Two-Dimensional Manual Ultrasonography for Follicular Tracking and Oocyte Retrieval in Women Undergoing in vitro Fertilization-Embryo Transfer: A Randomized Controlled Trial

AIM: To compare the oocyte yield using three-dimensional (3D) automated and two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound-based follicle tracking in women undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Reproductive Medicine Unit of a teaching medical institute from January 2017 to December 2018. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 130 patients undergoing IVF-ET were enrolled and randomized into two groups (65 patients in each group). In Group A, follicular tracking during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) was done using 3D Sonography- based Automated Volume Count (SonoAVC), whereas in Group B, follicular tracking was done by manual ultrasonography (2D USG). The primary outcome measures were the number of oocytes retrieved (the total number and the number of mature oocytes). Secondary outcomes were fertilization rate, cleavage rate, total number of embryos and time taken to perform scans. Other outcome measures were clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate and live birth rate (LBR). STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Chi-square test, Student's t-test, Z-test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Bland–Altman's plot. RESULTS: The two groups were comparable with regard to assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Group B required more time for performing the scan (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Automated SonoAVC ultrasound can be used interchangeably with manual 2D USG for follicle tracking during COS giving comparable ART outcomes with the added advantage of saving time. Our study implies the promising results of applying artificial intelligence in follicular tracking during COS.