Intracytoplasmic sperm injection

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a specialized form of In Vitro Fertilization that is used primarily to overcome male infertility issues.

Overview

ICSI involves the injection of a single sperm directly into a mature egg to achieve fertilization. It is a form of Assisted Reproductive Technology that has revolutionized the treatment of severe male factor infertility.

Procedure

The ICSI procedure involves several steps. First, the woman's eggs are retrieved in a process similar to that used in standard IVF. The man's sperm is then prepared for injection. A single sperm is picked up in a tiny pipette and is injected directly into the egg. After injection, the eggs are monitored for signs of fertilization.

Indications

ICSI is indicated in cases of severe male factor infertility, including very low sperm count (oligospermia), poor sperm motility (asthenospermia), or abnormal sperm morphology (teratospermia). It may also be used in cases where fertilization attempts with conventional IVF have failed, or when using frozen sperm retrieved through testicular biopsy.

Success Rates

The success rates for ICSI are generally comparable to those for conventional IVF. However, success can vary widely and depends on a number of factors, including the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and the specifics of the individual's condition.

Risks and Controversies

While ICSI has been a breakthrough in treating male infertility, it is not without risks and controversies. There is a slightly increased risk of birth defects in children conceived through ICSI, although the absolute risk remains low. There is also ongoing debate about the long-term health of children conceived through ICSI.

See Also

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
• Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
• Sperm
• Oocyte