Laser-assisted zona pellucida thinning prior to routine ICSI

Authors: M. Moser; T. Ebner; M. Sommergruber; U. Gaisswinkler; K. Jesacher; M. Puchner; R. Wiesinger; G. Tews

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 19, Number 3, March 2004 , pp. 573-578(6)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $44.11 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: In MII oocytes showing difficult oolemma breakage, ICSI can cause an increase in the degeneration rate. This may be overcome by laser-assisted ICSI using a 5–10 µm opening in the zona pellucida for injection. However, such a small opening might impair the hatching process, especially if assisted hatching is applied in addition. In order to prevent this, the present study used routine injection through an area of zona pellucida in which laser zona thinning had been applied, providing for both a reduced mechanical stress to the oocyte and assisted hatching. METHODS: This prospective study involved 100 cycles with 1016 MII oocytes. Conventional ICSI (control group) was compared with a modified laser-assisted ICSI (study group) in sibling oocytes. In the latter group oocytes were injected through an extended area of zona thinning. RESULTS: Degeneration rate was significantly lower in the study group (P < 0.004). There were no differences in fertilization, or formation and quality of blastocysts. In the study group embryo quality on day 2 was significantly better (P = 0.004) and herniation of day 5 blastocysts was increased (P = 0.005). Rates of implantation and pregnancy were not affected. However, on day 3 laser-assisted ICSI proved beneficial (P = 0.038) in terms of clinical pregnancy rate. CONCLUSIONS: The new method combines a less invasive ICSI technique with assisted hatching. Our preliminary data indicate that in addition to an improved oocyte survival, this new approach increases the hatching rate in vitro, which may explain the increase in pregnancy rate, at least in day 3 transfers.

Keywords: : assisted hatching/blastocyst stage/laser assiste

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deh093

Affiliations: 1: To whom correspondence should be addressed. e-mail: Marianne.moser@gespag.at

Publication date: 2004-03-01

More about this publication?

Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Laser-assisted zona pellucida thinning prior to routine ICSI

Buy & download fulltext article:

Tools

Key

Text size:

Useful pages