Octuplet Doc Lead "Infertility Clinic"

Now that the fertility doctor responsible for implanting six embryos in Nadya Suleman has been identified, an investigation into his track record in successfully pregnancies has astounded even the experts. It turns out that Dr. Kamrava's clinic, West Coast IVF, was way below the national average in the percentage of live births as a result of in vitro fertilization.

The medical community and the media continue to follow the business and science issues surrounding the birth of the Suleman octuplets. It turns out that many of these clinics, including Dr. Kamrava's practice in Beverly Hills, are part of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART). Members report clinical data on success rates. And while this data can be gamed, say by turning away patients who are less likely to get pregnant, overall the reports that SART publishes can be useful for comparison.

According to SART's national survey, 35% of in vitro fertilizations result in pregnancies. Now compare Kamrava's results with the industry average. According to SART's national survey, 35% of implantations result in pregnancies. Nationwide, for women under 35, 45% of in vitro treatments result in live births. Kamrava's rate was 10%. And he was unable to help any of his patients over 35. A case could be made that Dr. Kamrava treats only the most difficult cases but, if you look, for example, at Cornell's fertility clinic, which attracts the most difficult patients from all over the world, its success rate is similar to the national average.

Because of the cost of each implantation and the likelihood that one or more embryo will not survive, doctors typically implant three fertilized eggs into a woman's womb to up the chances of a viable birth. Some believe that Suleman's fertility doctor, Michael Kamrava, implanted more than that, violating professional ethical guidelines, although not breaking any U.S. laws. Kamrava, a general practitioner who lacks board certification for obstetrics and gynecology.

The Octuplet Doc is also reportedly being investigated by the California state medical board for implanting too many embryos inside Nadya Suleman. Did the doctor try to increase the odds based on his prior track record? One think is for sure, any hospital associated with Dr. Kamrava will take a closer look. He may not lose his license but the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology will probably sanction him.

The Associated Press estimated her medical costs could be $1.3 million in addition to the $2.7 million estimated to raise all 14 children to the age of 17. Police are even investigating death threats against her, and the once-celebrated mom of many has reportedly gone into hiding.


sources: forbes, scientific american. Associated Press