Genetic testing of embryos is a state-of-the-art procedure, which enables us to screen embryos for genetic diseases before the embryos are transferred into the uterus. The purpose of this is to decrease the likelihood of finding chromosomal abnormalities, once the patient is pregnant, during prenatal diagnosis with tests such as chorionic villus sampling, amniocentesis or fetal blood cell testing. In order for PGT to be performed a patient must undergo IVF.
Some of the patients who would benefit from PGT include:
At Fertility Institute of San Diego, we use the latest cutting-edge modalities in an attempt to provide the best service for our patients. The PGT is comprised of 2 steps:
PGT is an intricate process, which requires several weeks of preparation. The 6-step process can be summarized as follows:
It is necessary to undergo an IVF cycle in order to perform PGT. You will undergo controlled ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. Once the eggs are harvested, Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is performed in an effort to maximize the number of embryos. The embryos are then cultured to the blastocyst stage.
A specialized laser is used to make an opening in the shell of the embryo and a few cells are removed. This is typically performed on a day five embryo or a blastocyst. These cells are sent to the cytogenetic lab.
Immediately following the biopsy, the embryo is cryopreserved or frozen for later transfer once the results are known. One benefit of embryo freezing is that they can remain frozen for yearsFor later use.
Depending on the indication for the PGT either Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) in which all 24 chromosomes are screened will be performed. The results are reported within 7 days.
We welcome the opportunity to answer any questions you may have about your fertility treatment. Here at Fertility Institute of San Diego, you will be treated with compassion and care.