3-Step IVF Process Can Yield Positive Results

Day 5 Biopsy Testing for Genetic Defects

Embryo biopsy, removing one cell or a small representative group of cells from a developing embryo, provides your fertility specialist with valuable insights to help improve the odds for a successful pregnancy. Preimplantation genetic testing is then ordered by your doctor to evaluate the embryos’ genetic makeup.

When we biopsy on Day 5, the embryo has matured to the blastocyst stage, and cells have multiplied to over 100. Inside the egg’s protective shell (zona pellucida), two different types of cells serve two different purposes:

• The inner cell mass (ICM) will form the fetus.
• Trophectoderm cells will line the interior of the placenta.

When a Day 5 trophectoderm biopsy is performed, a skilled embryologists who will tap through the egg’s outer shell so that a small proportion of trophectoderm cells begin to push through the microscopic opening.

On Day 5, we remove about 5 to 10 of these cells and send them off to a reference lab for genetic testing. At the same time, all of the tested embryos are flash-frozen, or vitrified, for safekeeping until it’s time to plan the embryo transfer in a future month.

Patients sometimes ask whether trophectoderm biopsy will harm the embryo. The cells that are removed from the embryo make up the placenta, not the baby and their removal will not affect development.

What We Want to See in Trophectoderm Cells

Our genetics reference lab uses PCR, CGH or next generation sequencing to map out the embryo’s genetic material, so that your doctor can identify gene mutations and chromosomal problems before transferring the embryo to the uterus.

Applications for PGD with Day 5 Trophectoderm Biopsy

Preimplantation genetic screening/diagnosis is not routinely recommended for couples undergoing IVF, as only a small percentage of patients can truly benefit from this technology. When PGS or PGD are indicated, your doctor will recommend Day 5 trophectoderm biopsy.

Reasons why Day 5 Trophectoderm Biopsy is preferential.

• Better technology
• Less False Positives
• Lower risk of misdiagnosis
• Less damage to the embryo
• Lower risk of no signal from the embryo (no diagnosis)

Today’s DNA mapping enables us to proceed to IVF with the confidence that we have chosen the best embryos for a successful pregnancy without genetic disease. Should you require PGD and Day 5 trophectoderm biopsy, Dallas - Fort Worth Fertility Associates has the experience, IVF lab capabilities and advanced technologies to perform this intricate process.