What is MFSS?
A gentle procedure that reduces handling time in the selection of best-quality sperm.
MFSS simulates the journey of sperm through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Conventional methods of sperm selection typically use centrifugation and subsequent tracking of sperm motility. MFSS, in contrast, reduces sample handling time from approximately 2 hours to just 30 minutes. Sperm are therefore exposed to the external environment for a much shorter time and the risk of DNA fragmentation and mechanical damage is substantially reduced.
The entire process involves only one step, during which sperm are monitored for their ability to travel through the chip mechanism into the central stream of the device. MFSS is essentially a more modern and efficient variant of the previously widespread magnetically activated selection procedure magnetic activated cell sorting — MACS.
MFSS — sperm selection using microfluidic chip I PFC
Main benefits of MFSS:
- Sperm selection using the microfluidic chip method allows us to analyse a wide range of ejaculate samples, including — viscous, small quantity, low density and motile sperm.
- Due to the reduced risk of DNA fragmentation and damage, MFSS plays a pivotal role in selecting the best quality sperm for both intrauterine insemination (IUI) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) fertilisation. Studies show that sperm DNA fragmentation leads to a lower probability of proper embryo division and consequently lower implantation success. MFSS, therefore, is one of the sperm selection methods that reduces the risk of failure in assisted reproduction as we can significantly reduce the percentage of sperm with fragmented DNA.
Sperm selection using MFSS microfluidic chip technology maximises the efficiency of daily laboratory work during sample analysis. In cases of azoospermia, or is the complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, we then explore specialised methods of surgical sperm retrieval through MESA/TESE (microsurgical sperm retrieval) and possibly selection by LAISS (laser assisted selection of non-motile sperm).
Our andrology specialists can explain how we proceed with the examination and treatment of male factor infertility to find the best method for each individual.
You can learn more about our comprehensive approach to fertility treatment on both the male and female side directly from your IVF coordinator.
