What is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is an advanced fertility treatment used as part of an IVF procedure to help fertilize eggs.
During ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to aid in fertilization. This technique is particularly helpful for couples with severe male infertility issues.
Infertility Conditions Addressed by ICSI
ICSI is typically used to treat:
– Male infertility factors such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility
– Previous unsuccessful IVF attempt
– Sperms obtained from TESA/ TESE in pts with Blocked or absent vas deferens
– Unexplained infertility
– Advanced maternal age
– Cases where Preimplantation genetic testing is planned.
Procedure of ICSI
The ICSI process involves the following steps:
1. Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected from the ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound
2. Sperm Selection: A single healthy sperm is selected by the embryologist
3. Injection: The selected sperm is injected directly into the egg
4. Embryo Transfer: The fertilized egg (now an embryo) is transferred to the uterus a few days after fertilization
Tests Required Before ICSI
Before proceeding with ICSI, several important tests are conducted:
– Semen analysis: To assess the shape, movement, and count of sperm
– Ovarian reserve testing: To evaluate the quantity and quality of the eggs
Benefits of ICSI
There are numerous benefits with ICSI treatment option:
– It increased the chance of fertilization even with poor quality sperm
– There is a possibility of paternity for men with very low sperm counts or blockages
– ICSI can be used with sperm retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis if ejaculation is not possible
– Better success rates in patients with previous fertilisation failure with IVF.
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