Laser Assisted Hatching
Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH) in Kathmandu
When the embryo is still in the lab on the third day following an IVF cycle, a specialized procedure called laser-assisted Hatching (LAH) is used. This technique entails making a tiny hole in the embryo’s exterior shell. The exterior shell is the zona pellucida. This is done by using a precision laser. Using laser technology for this procedure offers a regulated, secure, and efficient method.
Though it may appear simple. But making a tiny hole in the zona pellucida needs careful execution. Also, it requires a trained technician, and certain lab equipment. The process takes only a few seconds, on average, and is speedy.
The LAH Procedure
LAH utilizes a laser in order to either thin or cut open the ZP enabling the embryo to hatch more easily in a natural way. Since, the laser is never directed on the embryo, its safety is maximum. It is better because it offers less degree of manual handling of the embryo which minimizes injury risks. Consistent success rates are achieved with pre-programmed settings, which considerably increase the likelihood of pregnancy.
Benefits of Laser-Assisted Hatching
LAH is used to decrease embryo damage caused by a small amount of physical contact and high fidelity is no longer critical. The method provides a level of protection to the embryo, due to meticulously controlled laser parameters. In the study, LAH effects have been demonstrated that LAH may be an excellent counterfoil for IVF pregnancy rate value that LAH may represent a leap from IVF protocol.
Potential Risks of LAH
While generally safe, LAH is not without risks. There can be complications, i.e., as follows, such as with other procedures for IVF or ICSI. The inherent effort at controlling the hatched embryo may result in летальный event before and after transference. In addition, it is assumed that the embryo may not have been born following LAH.
LAH may result in a low percentage increase <1% of patients with twin pregnancy. However, this is a general concern with IVF itself. Importantly, studies have confirmed that LAH does not increase the risk of congenital disabilities in babies.
Who Can Benefit from LAH?
It won’t be advised for every IVF patient to undergo LAH. After carefully reviewing medical data and a couple’s history of infertility, specialists frequently recommend LAH for specific types of couples. In general, laser hatching can increase the likelihood of pregnancy under the following circumstances:
- Those who have had two or more unsuccessful IVF cycles.
- Women 38 years of age or older
- Poor embryo quality
- Increased FSH levels
- Infertility that cannot be explained
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Older women frequently generate eggs with thicker zona pellucida, which might impede attachment to the womb and hatching.
In certain situations, assisted hatching may be advantageous. Furthermore, the zona pellucida of frozen or thawed embryos is usually tougher. This makes it more difficult for the embryos to hatch and implant. This process can be aided by LAH by making the required aperture in the outer shell.
The Importance of Hatching
Hatching refers to the period of the embryo being taken from the external shell and embedded into the uterine wall. While it occurs in an unprovoked manner in the majority of IVF cycles, certain infertility diseases are not able to withstand hatching and are managed by the use of techniques like LAH. However, it is also equally crucial to discuss the benefits and drawbacks with a fertility expert before the procedure is finally carried out.
Steps Involved in Laser-Assisted Hatching
Elsewhere, LAH is a fairly straightforward procedure consisting of two sequential steps and performed immediately after the acquisition of the cryopreserved embryos:
There are several major risks which ought to be noted with LAH:
Mistakes during LAH can result in the embryo being harmed or even completely destroyed. This, however, occurs very rarely as long, as such operations are carried out by fertility specialists whose experience guarantees their reproductive success.
Conclusion
The development of laser technology has transformed the use of precise procedures in reproductive medicine. Following embryo transfer, LAH promotes implantation in the uterine wall by helping embryos hatch from the zona pellucida.
In comparison to other approaches, the use of a concentrated infrared laser beam to remove the zona pellucida is quicker and requires less handling of the embryo, resulting in a shorter period for the embryo to remain outside the incubator.
At Venus IVF, we offer expert fertility treatments for men and women, helping you achieve your dream family.
Contact Info
- +977 976-1682874
- +977 976-1682874
- info@venusivf.com
- Venus Hospital, Second floor- IVF department Mid baneshwor Kathmandu, Nepal
- 12-5 PM : Sunday to Friday (except Saturday)