The efficacy and cost effectiveness of embryo cryopreservation compared with other assisted reproductive techniques

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and cost effectiveness of embryo cryopreservation compared with other assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). DESIGN: Retrospective review of medical records and health care costs. SETTING: Tertiary care academic medical school ART program. PATIENTS: For determination of the efficacy of cryopreserved ET, we analyzed 610 patients undergoing the first 1,000 oocyte retrievals in our program. For determination of cost effectiveness, we analyzed the costs associated with 334 initiated ART cycles in 1992. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The ongoing pregnancy rate (PR) per initiated cycle and per oocyte retrieval. The medical costs associated with each procedure. RESULTS: The transfer of cryopreserved embryos increased the ongoing PR per oocyte retrieval by 6.6%. Transfer of cryopreserved embryos was cost effective compared with other ARTs. The cost per delivery for cryopreserved ETs was between 25% and 45% that of a fresh cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Including embryo cryopreservation in an ART program can improve PRs and lower the ultimate cost per delivery.