Key Takeaways
- Time-lapse morphokinetics uses continuous embryo monitoring via EmbryoScope
- Provides detailed insights into embryo development and division patterns
- Non-invasive and improves embryo selection for IVF
- Enhances success rates in both IVF and gestational surrogacy cycles
- Supports safer and more precise decision-making for transfers
Selecting the best embryo is critical for IVF and surrogacy success. Traditional assessment relies on daily static observations, which may miss subtle developmental events.
Time-lapse morphokinetics using EmbryoScope continuously monitors embryo growth, recording every cleavage and developmental milestone. This allows fertility specialists to select embryos with the highest implantation potential.
For intended parents, this improves IVF success and reduces stress. For gestational surrogates, it ensures that embryos transferred have the highest chances for safe implantation and healthy pregnancy.
What Is Time-Lapse Morphokinetics?
Time-lapse morphokinetics involves continuous imaging of embryos in an incubator equipped with a camera system (EmbryoScope).
How It Works
- Embryos are placed in a specialized incubator
- High-resolution images are captured every 5–15 minutes
- Software analyzes developmental events (morphokinetics)
- Embryos are ranked based on growth patterns and division timings
This method captures details that static observation cannot, providing a more complete picture of embryo viability.
Benefits of EmbryoScope in IVF
Non-Invasive Monitoring
- Embryos remain undisturbed in the incubator
- Reduces handling stress, supporting natural development
Improved Embryo Selection
- Tracks exact timings of cell divisions
- Detects abnormal development early
- Helps identify embryos with the highest implantation potential
Higher Implantation and Pregnancy Rates
- Studies show better live birth rates compared to traditional selection methods
- Reduces risk of transferring non-viable embryos
Enhanced Surrogacy Outcomes
- Provides gestational surrogates with embryos that have the best developmental profiles
- Minimizes repeated transfers
Time-Lapse Morphokinetics Parameters
Key morphokinetic parameters tracked include:
- t2, t3, t4…: timing of each cell division
- cc2: duration between 2-cell and 3-cell stages
- Blastocyst formation timings
- Abnormal cleavage events
These parameters allow precise ranking of embryos beyond visual morphology alone.
Case Study
Background:
An intended parent couple undergoing gestational surrogacy had multiple previous failed FETs with high-quality embryos.
Intervention:
Embryos were cultured in an EmbryoScope, and time-lapse morphokinetics were used to identify the most viable blastocyst.
Outcome:
- Highest potential embryo selected
- Successful implantation and ongoing healthy pregnancy in the surrogate
- Reduced stress and uncertainty for intended parents
Testimonials
Intended Parent – USA
“The EmbryoScope gave us confidence that we were transferring the best embryo. The pregnancy happened on the first try!”
Gestational Surrogate – UK
“Knowing the embryo had been continuously monitored made me feel safe and reassured.”
Fertility Specialist
“Time-lapse morphokinetics is transforming IVF, allowing us to make more precise, non-invasive decisions.”
Expert Quote
“EmbryoScope and morphokinetic analysis allow us to understand embryo development in real time, improving selection accuracy and ultimately pregnancy outcomes.”
— Dr. Anika Sharma, Reproductive Embryologist
Related Links
- Advanced Embryo Selection Techniques in Gestational Surrogacy
- Embryo Monitoring and Assessment
- IVF Laboratory Technologies
- Improving Implantation Rates in Surrogacy
Glossary
- Morphokinetics: Study of embryo development over time
- EmbryoScope: Specialized incubator with continuous imaging
- t2, t3, t4: Timings of cell divisions in embryo development
- Blastocyst: Embryo at 5–6 days suitable for transfer
- FET: Frozen Embryo Transfer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is EmbryoScope safe for embryos?
Ans : Yes. It is non-invasive and keeps embryos undisturbed in optimal conditions.
Q. How does morphokinetics improve embryo selection?
Ans : By tracking detailed cell division timings and patterns that static observation may miss.
Q. Is time-lapse monitoring better than traditional observation?
Ans : Evidence shows higher implantation rates and reduced risks of transferring abnormal embryos.
Q. Can EmbryoScope detect genetic abnormalities?
Ans : It cannot replace genetic testing but helps identify embryos with abnormal developmental patterns.
Q. How often are images captured?
Ans : Typically every 5–15 minutes, continuously throughout incubation.
Q. Does it add stress to the IVF process?
Ans : No. Embryos remain in a stable environment without additional handling.
Q. Can it be used for surrogacy cycles?
Ans : Yes, it enhances embryo selection for gestational surrogacy transfers.
Q. Is time-lapse morphokinetics expensive?
Ans : Costs vary, but it is generally considered an advanced IVF technology.
Q. Can frozen embryos be monitored in EmbryoScope?
Ans : Yes, thawed embryos can be placed in the EmbryoScope for culture and monitoring.
Q. How does it help in recurrent implantation failure?
Ans : By identifying embryos with optimal growth patterns for transfer, improving chances of success.
Q. Is it widely available?
Ans : Available in specialized IVF labs equipped with EmbryoScope technology.
Q. Who decides which embryo to transfer?
Ans : Fertility specialists use morphokinetics data alongside traditional morphology to select the best embryo.
Dr. Kulsoom Baloch
Dr. Kulsoom Baloch is a dedicated donor coordinator at Egg Donors, leveraging her extensive background in medicine and public health. She holds an MBBS from Ziauddin University, Pakistan, and an MPH from Hofstra University, New York. With three years of clinical experience at prominent hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan, Dr. Baloch has honed her skills in patient care and medical research.
- Dr. Kulsoom Baloch
- Dr. Kulsoom Baloch
- Dr. Kulsoom Baloch
- Dr. Kulsoom Baloch
