The value of the modern embryologist to a successful IVF system: revisiting an age-old question

Abstract

Background The embryology laboratory remains one of the primary factors influencing the overall performance of the IVF clinic. Clinical embryology, however, has undergone remarkable advancements over the last decade. These developments in both practice and education have been driven together by science and technology. Main body The changes in clinical embryology practice have created a significant challenge for both the profession and the embryologist. New competencies for embryologists have subsequently emerged to provide and manage high-quality services for their patients and clinics. Embryologists’ efficacy behind the scenes reflects positively on the success of the fertility clinic. This framework will serve as the flagship document to shed light on the often-overlooked value of the embryologist as an intellectual and intangible asset for the clinic. Conclusion To fully leverage a modern embryologist’s skill set, significant investment is required from the IVF clinics’ leadership, which is associated with a substantial return on the IVF clinic’s success. From their side, embryologists should be up to date on further developments and innovations. On the other hand, mentors need to mend the curriculum to allow for better training of high-caliber embryologists.

Fabrication on the microscale: a two-photon polymerized device for oocyte microinjection

“…Successful fertilization following ICSI is dependent on the training and expertise of the embryologist performing the procedure [ 14 , 15 ]. In the case of a less experienced operator, oocytes may be subjected to higher levels of mechanical stress (causing oocyte lysis) and spend extended periods of time outside an incubator.…”

“…In the instance of many oocytes requiring injection, the procedure may become more inefficient with gametes remaining outside the incubator for an extended period. In turn, this may lead to impaired embryo production [ 15 , 16 ].…”

“…Intracytoplasmic sperm injection can be a technically challenging procedure with its success being influenced by human variability [ 12 , 14 , 15 ]. This procedural variation can induce mechanical stress on the oocyte, negatively impacting fertilization [ 17 ].…”

Considerations on staffing levels for a modern assisted reproductive laboratory

“…It indicates an active process that involves the coordination and collaboration of each care team member. Choucair et al (2021) stated that teamwork is a non-technical skill of key importance that contributes an embryologist's success beside decision-making and stress management. The ART cycle process involves a series of strictly controlled events, with accurate attention to detail, performed by a team where everyone has a specific role to play (Choucair et al, 2021).…”

“…Choucair et al (2021) stated that teamwork is a non-technical skill of key importance that contributes an embryologist's success beside decision-making and stress management. The ART cycle process involves a series of strictly controlled events, with accurate attention to detail, performed by a team where everyone has a specific role to play (Choucair et al, 2021). The team is required to work carefully for long hours in environmentally controlled conditions, often without natural light.…”