Human Embryo Cryopreservation—Methods, Timing, and other Considerations for Optimizing an Embryo Cryopreservation Program

Amy E. T. Sparks

doi:10.1055/s-0035-1546826

Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, Table of Contents

Semin Reprod Med 2015; 33(02): 128-144
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1546826

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Human Embryo Cryopreservation—Methods, Timing, and other Considerations for Optimizing an Embryo Cryopreservation Program

Authors

Amy E. T. Sparks

¹Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa

Abstract

The contribution of embryo cryopreservation to the birth rate per in vitro fertilization cycle has escalated from a rare subsidy to a vital tool that is called upon to augment the cycle outcome. Embryology laboratories must identify the embryo stage, quality criteria and methodology that will optimize their ability to preserve each embryo's reproductive potential. This chapter reviews the principles of cryopreservation, outcomes based on embryo stage and cryopreservation method and benchmarks that may be employed by the laboratory to measure the performance of their embryo cryopreservation program.

Keywords

cryopreservation - embryo - blastocyst - pronuclear stage - vitrification - slow freezing

Full Text

References

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