Time lapse embryo imaging

Time-lapse embryo imaging is an emerging non-invasive embryo selection technique used in reproductive biology. It is used to help select embryos with lower risk of defects and/or greater potential of implantation. The procedure involves taking thousands of pictures of the growing embryo in vitro during incubation to study morphology and morphokinetic parameters.

There is currently insufficient evidence of a difference in pregnancy rates, live-birth, stillbirth or miscarriage to choose been time-lapse embryo imaging or conventional embryo assessment in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Further trials are needed in order to determine whether time-lapse embryo imaging can impact on outcomes such as live-birth for couples undergoing IVF or ICSI.