IMSI

What does it involve?

IMSI stands for Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection.

This technique, used in in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments, like ICSI involves injecting a spermatozoon into the egg, but here sperm selection requires the use of a microscope with a magnification capacity of over 6,000 times. The microscope offers great image quality and is associated with complex computer software that controls its operation. Sperm selection at this magnification makes it possible to see structures and anomalies that would be invisible with conventional microscopes

Studies show that the presence of morphological and structural abnormalities in the head of the spermatozoon (the presence of vacuoles, for example) is related to DNA damage. This prompts a decrease in the rate of fertilisation of the egg, of embryo implantation and, therefore, of pregnancy.

IMSI allows for the selection of spermatozoa with the best morphology and greater chances of success in in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. It also reduces the chances of miscarriage.

When is IMSI advisable?

Although this is not a technique suitable for all couples undergoing an IVF cycle, better results are indeed observed in patients with previous IVF failures, semen sample with high DNA fragmentation and cases of serious male factor infertility.