Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

This procedure has revolutionized the treatment of male infertility since it allows couples to achieve fertilization, even when only a few sperm are available. Intracytoplasmic sperm Injection (ICSI), a specialized form of microinsemination, was first developed by reproductive medical specialists in Belgium to help couples to overcome male infertility problems such as: low sperm counts, poor motility or movement of the sperm, poor sperm quality, or sperm that lack the ability to penetrate an egg.

Procedure:

During routine IVF, eggs and sperm are combined and incubated together in order to achieve fertilization. ICSI is performed by the embryologist, who surgically inserts one sperm into each egg. This is done by perforating the membrane of the egg with a glass pipette, which contains the sperm. It requires highly developed skills.

Because only one sperm is needed per egg, even very small numbers of sperm will do. This becomes especially important in males with azoospermia (the complete lack of sperm present in the ejaculate). In such cases, we can offer a procedure called testicular sperm extraction (TESE), where our urologist extracts a small piece of testicular tissue that may contain sperm cells that can be used for ICSI. In a very high percentage of cases, azoospermic males can achieve fatherhood. Another surgical procedure may also be performed called Percutaneous Epididymal Surgical Aspiration (PESA) ( see ICSI Fertilization Rates under IVF Outcome). Once the egg is injected with a single sperm, it is observed approximately 18 hours later to see if fertilization has taken place.

ICSI Value:

In any field of medical research, success is often measured in minute degrees, the impact of which may only be known to those whose careers are spent in the laboratories. Occasionally, however, there comes a discovery so astounding that it revolutionizes medical procedure. Such is the case with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, or ICSI, a new infertility treatment utilizing micromanipulation technology that specifically addresses male factor infertility issues. ICSI is so remarkable, in fact, that most treatments previously used have been abandoned in its favor. The indications for ICSI have broadened and is performed to optimize fertilization in cases in which few eggs are available and for cases requiring PGD for single gene disorders.

Next Steps:

If you are interested your next step should be:

• Obtain a Free e-Mail Consultation
• Arrange a Telephone Consultation
• Obtain an Office Consultation