Manipulation of sperm before intracytoplasmic sperm injection improves fertilization rates.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effect of sperm manipulation before intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) on fertilization rates.


METHODS
Three methods of sperm manipulation before direct ICSI were compared in two sibling oocyte trials.


METHODS
In vitro fertilization unit within a teaching hospital.


METHODS
Patients undergoing infertility treatment using ICSI.


METHODS
Oocytes were inseminated by ICSI.


METHODS
Fertilization rate.


RESULTS
In the first trial, a standard manipulation technique gave a 67% fertilization rate compared with 64% with a minimal manipulation technique. In the second trial the standard technique gave a significantly greater fertilization rate compared with no prior manipulation (67% versus 45%).


CONCLUSIONS
Manipulation of sperm before direct ICSI is not mandatory for fertilization but significantly improves the fertilization rate.
Catt
J
J
Human Reproduction Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, New South Wales, Australia.
O'Neill
C
C
D003593:Cytoplasm; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008845:Microinjections; D009865:Oocytes / Q000648:ultrastructure; D013081:Sperm Motility; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000502:physiology*