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The normal process of conception requires escape or "hatching"
of the early embryo from the zona pellucida shell. Hatching
usually occurs around the 5th or 6th day following fertilization
and is required for the embryo to attach, or implant, in the
uterus.
Inability of the embryo to complete the hatching process
may interfere with implantation. Assisted hatching is a laboratory
procedure designed to reduce the chance that an embryo will
be unable to proceed beyond this stage. Some studies suggest
that IVF pregnancy rates are improved if assisted hatching is
performed, particularly in older women. The ART program may
recommend assisted hatching in select circumstances that include
advanced maternal age or previous IVF failure.
Assisted hatching is accomplished by creating a small hole in
the zona pellucida, either by the focal application of a special
solution or by the energy from a focused laser beam. Similar
to many aspects of handling and manipulating embryos in vitro,
there is risk of damage to the embryo resulting in the loss
of viability (life). This risk is very low. |
