Human reproduction
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Some patients with endometriosis are candidates for sympathectomy of the superior hypogastric plexus. The objective of this paper is to describe our technique of laparoscopic presacral neurolysis for sympathectomy and to report 1 year results of the first 15 cases. ⋯ Laparoscopic presacral neurolysis is feasible and simple. More data is needed to support its efficacy and safety.
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Studies have shown that levels of serum markers of Down's syndrome were altered in pregnancies conceived after IVF, though the reason for this remains unknown. ⋯ The degree of alterations in maternal serum hCG and AFP levels varied between fresh and frozen-thawed embryos, and also between the mode of fertilization. Pregnancies resulting from ICSI or frozen embryo transfer should be regarded as distinct entities from those of IVF-embryo transfer.
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Cyproterone acetate combined with ethinyl estradiol (CPA/EE) is licensed in the UK for the treatment of women with acne and hirsutism and is also a treatment option for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Previous studies have demonstrated an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with CPA/EE compared with conventional combined oral contraceptives (COCs). We believe the results of those studies may have been affected by residual confounding. ⋯ We have demonstrated an increased risk of VTE associated with the use of CPA/EE in women with acne, hirsutism or PCOS although residual confounding by indication cannot be excluded.