PICSI- Physiological Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection

Fertility depends on the quality of the sperm and the egg. Qualitatively better gametes result in better fertility rates. This obviously happens in nature. A challenge in vitro however is to determine what constitutes the best quality gametes. When an ICSI procedure is planned, sperms are usually chosen based on appearance (morphology) and movement (motility). This plan though satisfactory thus far does not necessarily translate into the best sperm being chosen as appearances can be deceptive (pun intended).

What is PICSI?

PICSI is one of the techniques used for selecting the best possible sperm.

What is the principle of PICSI?

The principle of PICSI is based on the concept of Hyaluron binding. Hyaluronic acid is a substance found surrounding the egg. The sperm produces an enzyme called hyaluronidase which dissolves the hyaluronic acid in the egg membrane and helps in penetration. Good sperms bind to hyaluron.

How is PICSI performed?

Sperms to be chosen for ICSI are kept in a dish coated with hyaluron. The sperms which bind to the hyaluron are chosen for ICSI. This process is considered to be physiological as it mimics the normal sperm and egg binding.

Advantages of PICSI

Procedure is considered physiological. Helps us plausibly choose the best sperm for ICSI procedure.

Success with PICSI

At the Metromale clinic and Guna Fertility center, this procedure is routinely used to select the best possible sperm for ICSI. I have found that though this may not translate into increased pregnancy rates which are statistically significant, the quality of the embryos have been top notch.

Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection