INTRACYTOPLASMIC SPERM INJECTION (ICSI)

Glossary On Line Queries

What is an intracytoplasmic sperm injection?

An intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a sophisticated variation of the classical IVF (In Vitro Fertilization). It involves the injection of sperm directly into an egg. The treatment and incubation are exactly the same as in classical in vitro fertilizations. The only difference is that the laboratory process is more complex and requires sophisticated technology.

When do we recommend ICSI?

ICSI is most often used with couples who are dealing with male infertility factors. Any man not suffering from azoospermia (it occurs when there is no sperm in the male’s ejaculation) could be a candidate for this procedure, even if there is a low sperm count.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of ICSI?

Through this technique fertilisation of the eggs is guaranteed in about 99% of cases, whereas through conventional IVF fertilisation is not always achieved.

Since we do not use a general anaesthetic, the risk of complications is very small. Occasionally, the woman may respond to the hormone treatments by producing an excessive number of eggs (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome). There is also a risk of multiple pregnancy.