Gamete intrafallopian tube transfer (GIFT): Making laparoscopy more than 'diagnostic'

Diagnostic laparoscopy is commonly performed on patients as part of a complete infertility investigation. Recently published protocols have investigated the efficacy of using empiric ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination, or both before beginning in vitro fertilization. Because many patients enrolled in these protocols will be exposed to both ovulation induction and diagnostic laparoscopy, the authors reasoned that it would be more effective to begin ovulation induction at the time of the proposed diagnostic laparoscopy in order to allow gamete intrafallopian tube transfer (GIFT) at the same time. Twenty-five nulliparous patients underwent diagnostic GIFT. There were eight continuing pregnancies in this group (32%). Diagnostic GIFT is a more effective use of the opportunity provided by laparoscopy than diagnostic laparoscopy alone.