Innovative Enhancements

Our embryologists perform this microsurgical procedure to increase the chances of embryo implantation and pregnancy. Each embryo is surrounded by a "shell" called the zona pellucida. The embryo must break out of this "shell" in order for implantation to occur. Prior to transfer to the uterus, an artificial opening is created in the "shell"  to increase the likelihood of implantation.

ERA is an innovative test that helps pinpoint the exact time when your endometrium is receptive to embryo implanting. This test can help improve chances of pregnancy for those with repeated failed IVF.

ERA involves taking a small sample (biopsy) of endometrial cells at a particular times in your cycle. Cells in the endometrium produce certain types ⁠of genetic material during the window of implantation (WOI).⁠ An ERA can identify which endometrial cells ⁠are “Receptive” or “Nonreceptive” and whether your WOI is open or not. With repeated tests your doctor can determine your precise WOI. ⁠We can then time your embryo ⁠transfer to the most optimal time to maximize chance of achieving pregnancy.

EndomeTRIO is a series of tests including ERA - described in the section above - and two additional tests: ALICE and EMMA.

ALICE detects chronic endometritis-causing bacteria and recommends appropriate antibiotics. Endometriosis is a condition affecting 30% of infertile patients that is linked to implantation failure and recurrent miscarriages.

EMMA indicates the endometrial microbiome balance. EMMA provides information on the proportions of healthy endometrial bacteria, including those linked to higher pregnancy rates. It will recommend antibiotic and probiotic treatment, if needed, to restore an optimal microbiome. Includes ALICE.

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) for aneuploidy is a comprehensive chromosome screening performed on a small embryo biopsy, prior to transfer, to detect chromosomal abnormalities. All 24 chromosomes (22 autosomes plus X and Y) are examined to evaluate any gains or losses in the number of chromosomes, also known as aneuploidy. Normally there are 23 pairs of chromosomes in each human cell. A numerical change in the number of chromosomes is called aneuploidy. Aneuploidy can result in developmental abnormalities and is responsible for the vast majority of spontaneous miscarriages. Using PGT-A to screen for aneuploidy can also reduce the amount of time and additional costs inferred with multiple IVF cycles and increase the likelihood of pregnancy with single embryo transfers (eSET).

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-M) is a powerful genetic test to screen for specific inherited diseases.  PGT-M is performed on a small embryo biopsy to identify specific genetic conditions.  Embryos that did not inherit the affected gene(s) can then be selected for transfer.

PGT-M is indicated if you or your partner carry or are affected with a serious genetic disease like cystic fibrosis, fragile X syndrome, muscular dystrophy, Huntington disease and others, that may be passed on to your offspring. The diagnostic accuracy of PGT is between 90-99% when looking for a known genetic condition.

PGT-SR is also performed on a small embryo biopsy, prior to transfer, and used to identify chromosomal structural rearrangements.  These rearrangements can be caused by balanced translocations or inversions. Embryos that have a balanced chromosomal arrangement can then be selected for transfer.