No biopsy needed

A biopsy is usually used to obtain genetic material from an embryo. This is used to obtain the cells needed to determine whether the embryo is suitable for transfer to the uterus. However, the innovative Ranking⁺ method can determine the so-called implantation potential of individual embryos non-invasively, meaning without the biopsy. A couple undergoing IVF treatment can thus safely obtain information not only about the morphology and development dynamics of the embryos but also about which embryos are genetically best suited for transfer and therefore have the best chances of a successful pregnancy.

"The discovery of DNA in culture medium has led to the development of new non-invasive methods of niPGT in which biopsy is not needed. Embryologists thus analyse only the DNA isolated from the cells, which are spontaneously released into the so-called culture medium, i.e. a special solution in which the embryo is cultured," explains Hana Višňová, MD, head of the Prague IVF clinic CUBE, and continues. After genetic analysis, we rank the embryos into four groups from the most suitable to those with the lowest implantation potential."

The less is more

Ranking⁺ is used as a new method of testing for couples undergoing IVF-ICSI with their own or donated eggs. The benefits are many. "For example, with Ranking⁺ we can significantly reduce the number of trials needed to get pregnant while increasing the chance of success for each embryo transfer. For transfers without genetic testing, we achieve an average success rate of approximately 50%, depending on the age and medical history of the individual patient. When using Ranking⁺, this success rate can approach 65%," explains MUDr. Višňová, adding further arguments. "We also save the patient additional costs, stress and discomfort associated with travel and medication that would emerge with following embryo transfers."