Current technology of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer.

Since the initial human in vitro fertilization (IVF-ET) procedure in 1978, the laparoscope was the primary method for oocyte collection. Although laparoscopic retrieval instrumentation has been refined, ultrasound-guided follicular puncture has become the major retrieval technique in IVF-ET repertoire. The Johns Hopkins In Vitro Fertilization Program was initiated in 1984, recording the first in vitro pregnancy in Maryland.