Re-Biopsy and Biopsy of Post-vitrified Blastocyst

Abstract

In the last 45 years embryology lab has witnessed immense scientific and technological advancements. Implementation of new scientific methods is often questioned due to lack of evidence. Though Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) and Vitrification have been applied in the field of embryology for more than three decades, lack of evidence about their efficacy still needs further research. Inconclusive results after PGT, might necessitate the need for re-biopsy and there after re-vitrification. Such an intervention is thought to be detrimental to embryo viability and reproductive outcomes. Recent advances in commercial vitrification solutions and an improved skill matrix have enabled 100% embryo survival possible. Application of LASER for PGT seem to be a safer intervention with minimal damage to embryos. Both these advanced embryology interventions, Vitrification, and use of LASER for PGT allow re-biopsy of embryos and re-vitrification of embryos with optimal survival and reproductive outcomes. However, such an intervention has limited role with poor quality blastocysts. Pre-caution needs to be exercised with vitrified-warmed embryos as the trophectoderm tissue gets very stick at biopsy and there is a chance of complete embryo hatching from zona-pellucida if excessive pressure is applied in the biopsy pipette. Re-biopsy and Re-Vitrification both seem to be possible in reference to the published literature and do seem to offer optimal outcomes.