The technique of IMSI & PICSI is one of the most advanced techniques in assisted reproduction for the treatment of men infertility and it completes the microfertilization ICSI. This technique is a spermatozoa selection method based on high resolution microscopy that allows for the adequate magnification of the spermatozoa. That is possible with the use of a special electronic microscope that provides us with a far greater magnification (approximately 6000 times) compared to the one provided until now (200 times) by the ICSI technique. This higher percentage of magnification allows for a detailed representation of the sperm head and a better assessment of the possible damages of the DNA it contains. This way the selection of spermatozoa that demonstrate abnormalities and can endanger the successful completion of the therapy – such are, for example, the spermatozoa with cytoplasmic vacuoles – can be avoided. This technique allows for a beforehand selection of spermatozoa, prior to the microfertilization, where only the best of the spermatozoa are used. Before the microfertilization, the PICSI method allows for the spermatozoa to be inspected as follows: They are placed on a special Petri dish which has a special coating of hyaluronic acid. Only the best of the spermatozoa are attached on this layer and are selected by the embryologists.
WHEN IS THE IMSI & PICSI MICRO FERTILIZATION APPLIED?
This technique helps to select mature spermatozoon of excellent quality in patients whose sperm have good motility and a high degree of DNA fragmentation. The following is a list of the most typical circumstances for sperm selection using PICSI:
- Patients with spermatozoa FISH abnormalities.
- Sterility with unknown cause.
- Male factor is suspected in patients who experience recurrent miscarriages.
- Failed IVF-ICSI cycles in the past.
It should be emphasized that the PICSI approach has difficulty using seminal samples with very low sperm motility. Many people who, due to various medical conditions, have not been able to naturally become pregnant in order to realize their dreams can benefit from the combination of the PISCI procedure with other methods. Fortunately, advances in technology and scientific understanding allow for daily advancements in assisted reproductive treatments.