IMSI is an advanced method in IVF therapy. It is a procedure that involves the selection and examination of the sperm before it is injected into an egg using a microscope with digital imaging and high magnification. The sperm is selected before the microinjection using IMSI, as that allows for a procedure that is more timely. It is done using an inverted microscope with a magnification power that is many times greater than a typical laboratory microscope, which is used in ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). It is researched that there are greater chances of success when a better-shaped sperm is picked. IMSI is a great option if you have been unsuccessful in trying to conceive in the past.
Who needs IMSI?
IMSI is a modification of the ICSI technique and is often used in cases where regular ICSI has not been successful, or where the male partner has severe teratozoospermia (a high percentage of abnormal sperm).
What is the Difference between IMSI and ICSI?
IMSI is a technique that allows biologists to check the structure and shape of the sperm that have the highest rate of successful fertilization. It helps to eliminate sperm that may have abnormalities. It is an ideal procedure for those who have had failed ICSI attempts. IMSI is an advanced procedure that is done using a high-magnification microscope of more than *6000 magnification. It is recommended for those who have severe male infertility.
ICSI is a procedure that is done when IVF fails. The microscope used is at *400 magnification and is used to understand the shape and other morphological characteristics of sperm. It excludes sperm with abnormalities and is ideal for those with severe infertility.
Why is IMSI performed?
IMSI is recommended when the semen of the male contains more than the regular amount of abnormal sperm. It is also a preferable treatment option when IVF with conventional ICSI has not worked in previous attempts. With the help of IMSI, the embryologists at BirthRight Fertility by Rainbow can prevent abnormal or structurally deficient sperm from entering and fertilizing an egg. The selection procedure is enhanced with this treatment, and as a result, the chance of fertilization and normal growth of the embryo also increases.
When is Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) recommended?
IMSI treatment may be recommended in these situations:
- Older males – With age, the amount of good sperm being produced naturally would decrease. The shape and movement of sperm can also make fertility difficult, after the age of 40. With IMSI, the good sperms that are remaining can be chosen for injection into an egg.
- Poor quality embryos – Sometimes, it happens that despite having suitable eggs, good quality embryos aren’t achieved during a cycle of IVF. This can happen due to poor sperm quality. IMSI can help resolve this issue since only the sperm that are void of abnormalities are selected for injection.
- Poor sperm morphology – Sperm that is unusual in size or shape is called abnormal sperm. For males with abnormal sperm, IMSI is a great option along with IVF to speed up the process of conception.
- Couples with a history of miscarriages – Miscarriages can occur due to multiple reasons. Certain lifestyle choices such as the use of drugs and alcohol as well as mental health issues such as anxiety or stress can affect the quality of sperm. IMSI can improve the chances of conception and lower the odds of a miscarriage.
Procedure of Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI)
When it comes to IMSI cycles, the same rules apply as when it comes to ICSI cycles. In the laboratory, sperm pellets are first resuspended in a solution of an adequate concentration. In terms of how the sperms are picked, the only difference between IMSI and ICSI is the use of a microscope. MSOME (Motile Sperm Organelle Morphology Examination) technology is used in the construction of this microscope, which is equipped with a digital imaging system. Fertilization of the eggs occurs with a conventional microinjector after the embryologist has selected the best sperms from an ICSI plate.
FAQs About IMSI
IMSI is an advanced sperm selection technique used in IVF, where high-magnification microscopy helps identify and select the healthiest sperm for fertilization, improving success rates.
IMSI uses a high-powered microscope (over 6000x magnification) to select sperm with optimal morphology, while ICSI uses a lower magnification (400x), making IMSI more precise for severe male infertility cases.
IMSI is recommended for men with poor sperm morphology, high levels of abnormal sperm, repeated IVF/ICSI failures, poor embryo quality, or couples with a history of miscarriages.
Yes, IMSI can improve fertilization rates, embryo quality, and implantation success, increasing the likelihood of pregnancy, especially in cases of male infertility.
IMSI is a safe procedure, but it may be more time-consuming and slightly costlier than ICSI. However, the improved sperm selection process enhances overall IVF success rates.
