Fertilization can be carried out using "standard ЭКО " or ICSI (in particular, ПИКСИ , IMSI and PIMSI). In standard IVF, eggs are placed in a special medium in a suspension of sperm cells and left in an incubator for several hours. In ICSI, the embryologist selects the sperm himself (assessing its motility and morphology) and inserts it into the egg. Since the egg is very small (about 1/10 mm) and extremely sensitive to external influences, the ICSI procedure requires very high qualifications. PIXIES, IMSI, and PIMSI differ from the "simple" ICSI in a more complex way of selecting sperm.
Next, the embryologist cultivates the embryos in special media, in special cultivation cups, in incubators with constantly controlled temperature, humidity and concentration of gases in the atmosphere. Cultivation takes place within 5-7 days with regular assessment of embryo development and periodic change of media and plates. At the end of cultivation, the embryologist, together with a reproductive specialist, transfers the embryos into the uterine cavity. If necessary, the embryologist performs an auxiliary hatching procedure before the transfer.Also, if necessary, the embryologist freezes embryos, eggs and spermatozoa.
A separate procedure can be performed PGD – preimplantation genetic diagnosis (checking the embryos for genetic abnormalities). To do this, the embryologist performs a biopsy of the embryos — removal of one to several cells from the embryo. This is — the most delicate embryological operation that not all embryologists can perform. The biopsy material is sent to a genetic laboratory for genetic analysis.
Thus, the embryologist:
- evaluates the quality of the obtained biomaterial: spermatozoa and eggs;
- performs fertilization in the laboratory;
- creates and controls optimal cultivation conditions;
- monitors that how embryos develop;
- performs assisted hatching;
- performs embryo biopsy;
- cryopreserves embryos, oocytes, and spermatozoa.
Was this information helpful?
Questions and answers
Tumor in the breast
I’ve had a tumor in the lower part of my right breast and a metastasis in the left lymph node removed in 2011. I then had a recurrence in the upper quadrant of the right breast. But the doctors didn’t immediately react to this, even though I told them that I was experiencing some discomfort. After this I had biopsies
under ultrasound guidance at several medical centers, but I keep getting a completely different diagnosis everywhere I go. I still haven’t received any treatment. Test results are good. The metastasis is not growing but just sitting there. They’ve suggested a mastectomy. What’s the point? I don’t want to undergo chemotherapy. I’m on a raw food diet. I don't know what to do. I wish at least one of the diagnoses was confirmed. I want to be sure that I’m getting the right treatment. Because it’s the doctors that have brought me to this situation, even though I’ve had regular screenings for the past 25 years.
...more Before answering any questions regarding treatment, it is necessary to carry out a successful biopsy under ultrasound or X-ray guidance, to obtain multiple tissue samples (not cells) with subsequent histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Only then can we discuss a specific treatment plan! In any case, EMC
staff are always ready to provide advice and carry out the necessary diagnostic tests.
Best regards, Irina Vassilieva — M.D, radiologist, Head of EMC Breast Clinic
...more .webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
