[Assisted reproductive technology; IVF-ET].

To summarize the procedures and outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Novel and updated ART for the practical management of infertile couples are presented and compared with conventional modalities. The outcomes measured included clinical pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, abortion, still birth and delivery. Of ART treatments, 19,319 cycles initiated was IVF with 12.7% clinical pregnancy per retrieval in the world in 1991. In Japan, pregnancy rate of 9,667 cycles with IVF was 12.7% in 1991. 300 cycles initiated was IVF with 20% pregnancy rate at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asahikawa Medical College in 1994. In 1995, there will be more program offering more treatments cycles of ART. Improvements in stimulation, the culture system for fertilization and embryo growth, cryopreservation and microinsemination are expected to enhance the rates of clinical pregnancy.