A cost-effectiveness comparison of embryo donation with oocyte donation.

OBJECTIVE To compare the cost-effectiveness of embryo donation (ED) to that of oocyte donation (OD). DESIGN Calculation of cost-effectiveness ratios (costs per outcome achieved) using data derived from clinical practices. SETTING In vitro fertilization centers and embryo donation programs. PATIENT(S) Infertile couples undergoing oocyte donation or embryo donation. INTERVENTION(S) Oocyte donation or embryo donation cycles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Cost-effectiveness ratios. RESULT(S) For a single cycle, ED is approximately twice as cost-effective as OD, with a cost-effectiveness ratio of $21,990 per live delivery compared to 40,600 dollars. When strategies of up to three cycles (to achieve one live delivery) are used, ED costs 13,505 dollars per live delivery compared to 31,349 dollars for OD. CONCLUSION(S) Cost-effectiveness is a compelling reason for infertile couples to consider embryo donation.