Time-lapse monitoring is a continuous monitoring system that allows us to monitor embryo development in real-time without changes in cultivation conditions. Thanks to time-lapse monitoring, we are able to safely select embryos with the highest potential for nesting and, ultimately, a successful pregnancy.
Selecting and transferring the embryo with the highest potential increases the chance of nesting and successful pregnancy.
Embryo development is a very dynamic process, with many changes taking place over hours and days. In the evaluation was only carried out daily due to the sensitivity of embryonic cells to changes in temperature and pH. The static evaluation system then only allowed the comparison of embryos at the same critical stages of development.
The incorporation of time-lapse technology into conditions that simulate an ideal embryo environment, therefore, heralded a major advance in embryology technology. With time-lapse monitoring of embryo development, embryos remain in a more stable incubation environment throughout the monitoring period, reducing the risk of damage to the embryo.
The time-lapse device is a specialised incubator with a built-in embryo monitoring system that takes a photo every 30 minutes in up to 7 focal planes. From the high-quality images, the device creates a time-lapse video of an embryo’s growth. We can then go through their development step-by-step, monitoring the stages of division, morphology (shape) and dynamics of division. The device thus allows us to detect any deviations in the course of embryo development.
At the PFC clinic, we have introduced time-lapse embryo monitoring technology with a pioneering PrimoVision system, the first laboratory in the Czech Republic to do so. We are currently working with EmbryoScope, MIRI and Astec monitoring systems. We use the technology of continuous monitoring in almost every case of IVF cycles with own and donor eggs fertilised by the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) method. The data from the monitoring system is particularly important for us in the case of repeatedly failed cycles and in cycles with donor eggs.
Time-lapse embryo monitoring | PFC
To maximise cycle optimisation, time-lapse monitoring can also be combined with other monitoring methods such as OptimFert, a laboratory technology for monitoring egg maturity prior to ICSI.
Embryo monitoring is an essential part of our personalised approach to infertility treatment. Our embryologist will carefully review embryo development with you prior to transfer and explain which ones have the best potential for successful nesting.
If you would like to learn more about the time-lapse system, please contact our IVF Coordinator to schedule a personal consultation with a doctor.