Advanced Technology
Embryoscope
Cutting-edge, time-lapse technology enabling uninterrupted monitoring of embryo growth and development.
What is an Embryoscope Plus?
The Embryoscope+ is a specialised incubator combined with a time-lapse camera and cutting-edge computer software, designed specifically for the culture of human embryos. The Embryoscope+ enables uninterrupted embryo culture and improved embryo selection.
Fertility North pioneered the use of the Embryoscope in Perth and we are incredibly proud of the extensive work we have completed in developing and publishing our success. Your Fertility North Specialist will be able to discuss the benefits of time-lapse culture in accordance with your individual circumstances.
What is an Embryoscope used for?
Conventional embryo culture only allows the Embryologist to view your embryo/s once or twice a day, whereas time-lapse embryo culture allows us to monitor embryo growth continuously, without the need to remove the embryo/s from the incubator. This allows our embryologists to grade each and every embryo giving you the best chance of success.
To make an appointment to find out whether time-lapse embryo culture might help you in achieving your dream of parenthood, or to simply find out more, please contact the team at Fertility North.
Time-Lapse Embryo Culture
Time-lapse embryo culture allows us to monitor embryo growth continuously, without the need to remove the embryo/s from the incubator.
This allows our embryologists to grade each and every embryo giving you the best chance of success.
Time-lapse embryo culture
Will time-lapse embryo culture help me?
The Embryoscope has undergone rigorous testing before being introduced into routine practice at Fertility North and has been in routine use here since 2013. The Embryoscope captures thousands of pictures of each embryo to assist the embryologist in optimising the selection of the embryo or embryos for transfer and storage.
How does time-lapse culture differ from routine culture?
In routine practice, the progress and development of your embryos is monitored once or twice a day. This requires the Embryologist to remove your embryos from the incubator and examine them under a microscope, before returning them to the incubator. Effectively, this gives us a snapshot or two of what your embryos are doing each day. Using the Embryoscope+, embryos can be observed at any time of the day or night, without the embryos being removed from the culture environment. So, we have what is, in effect, a feature film of the development of each embryo.
Ultimately, the Embryoscope+:
- provides our scientists with more information about your embryos
- minimises handling of your embryos
- ensures optimal and uninterrupted embryo culture conditions
- enables better embryo selection
Who will see the recordings of my embryos?
The video recordings of the embryos will only be seen by staff at Fertility North. No identifying information about you will be shared with anyone outside the clinic. A copy of the video is available, upon request, if you have a confirmed pregnancy – the first video of your baby!
Is there a cost to time-lapse embryo culture?
The Embryoscope is an expensive piece of highly specialised equipment, requiring the use of dedicated culture dishes over and above that of a conventional incubator. The resulting footage of each embryo can take many hours to be reviewed and analysed by our Embryologists.
In spite of that, Fertility North believe that this technology should be available to all patients, and as such, we do not charge any additional fees for time-lapse embryo culture.
Availability?
The Embryoscope+ has a capacity of 240 embryos. So, there may only be very rare occasions when the Embryoscope is full and not available for any additional patients.
Who should I ask if I have any questions?
Dr Yanhe Liu, our Scientific Director, will be happy to answer any questions or queries. If you require assistance please call (08) 9301 1075 during clinic opening hours.
