Sperm Chip Technology
What is Sperm Chip?
Sperm Chip is an advanced sperm selection technology used in the IVF laboratory to prepare sperm for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). This device mimics the body’s natural process of sperm selection by encouraging sperm to swim through a specially designed membrane filter. The technology relies on sperm motility, selecting only the healthiest, most active sperm for fertilization.
Unlike traditional sperm preparation methods that use centrifugation, which can sometimes stress and damage sperm membranes, the Sperm Chip allows sperm to be selected based on their natural behavior, potentially improving the quality of sperm used in ICSI.
How Does Sperm Chip Work?
The Sperm Chip uses a microfluidic chip where sperm actively swim through a filter. The filter is designed to select sperm that demonstrates high motility, a characteristic of healthy and viable sperm. Technology avoids the use of harsh centrifugation, which has been suggested to potentially damage sperm cells. This method provides a more natural and gentle approach to sperm selection.
Could Sperm Chip be Right for You?
To use the Sperm Chip for ICSI, sperm concentration must be at least 10 million per ml for optimal use. If the sperm sample contains fewer motile sperm or has poor motility, conventional sperm preparation methods will be used. The Sperm Chip may not be suitable for all patients, and our fertility team will provide guidance on whether it can be used based on the sperm sample on the day of the procedure.
Why Choose Sperm Chip? The Sperm Chip offers several potential advantages over traditional sperm preparation methods, particularly for men with poor sperm motility or quality. By selecting sperm based on motility and natural swimming behavior, the Sperm Chip may enhance the chances of successful fertilization, embryo development, and pregnancy.
At IVF Vision, we have successfully achieved fertilization, embryo development, and pregnancies using the Sperm Chip, and our experienced embryologists are fully trained to use this innovative technology.