Part of the recognised Infertility Management Series, this handbook is a complete guide to basic laboratory procedures in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The book guides clinicians step by step through the processes, beginning with discussion on semen analysis, cryopreservation of semen samples, and semen selection, to embryo culture, selection and transfer, and oocyte and embryo vitrification. The final chapters cover time-lapse imaging - a new technology for embryo development, design and equipment for the laboratory, and future developments in ART laboratory procedures, including the development of gametes from stem cells. Compiled by a recognised team of editors and contributors, the text is enhanced by clinical photographs, illustrations and tables. Other titles in the series include: Investigating Infertility, Intrauterine Insemination, Practical Management of Male Infertility, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Handbook of Ovarian Stimulation, and Abnormalities of the Pelvis. Key points Part of Infertility Management Series providing complete guide to basic laboratory procedures in ART Guides clinicians step by step through the various processes Highly illustrated with photographs, diagrams and tables Edited by recognised team of experts in reproductive medicine

This book provides comprehensive, detailed, and step-by-step descriptions of materials and methods currently used in laboratory procedures within the infertility clinic. It addresses the numerous highly sophisticated procedures resulting from research in the area of laboratory diagnosis and treatment of infertility. Among those procedures covered are:

In the last decades, major advances have been made in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and the public demand for these procedures has increased globally. All ART clinics, from those just starting out to the well established, must employ the latest equipment and implement the best practices, while ensuring that their resources are effectively engaged to optimize patient outcomes. This is a tenet of the fiduciary role of physicians and it is increasingly recognized as a quantifiable goal regulated by formal certifications and accreditations. Quality management protocols such as those proposed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) are being rapidly adopted as standards of measure. Quality Management in ART Clinics: A Practical Guide provides easily adoptable ways to implement and improve formalized quality management systems. Essential to any clinic to achieve best practices and maintenance of formal regulatory certifications, this book brings together the know-how of experienced opinion leaders operating in key areas worldwide. The book offers an overview of primary regulations in the ART field, with attention to quality management demands, and links specific requirements to practical steps for implementation. Filled with process and procedure examples, flow diagrams and administrative form templates, this book is the first of its kind, gathering the necessary elements for optimizing practice, management, and quality assurance.

This state-of-the-art laboratory manual includes 20 clinical protocols used daily for the investigation of the infertile male, presented with easy to understand, step-by-step methodology. The protocols are arranged from routine to advanced laboratory procedures common to clinical practice, including computer-assisted semen analysis, sperm preparation for IUI by density gradient and swim-up, sperm cryopreservation, and sperm DNA fragmentation test by TUNEL method, among others. The methodology in each protocol follows best practice guidelines made clearer by professionally hand-drawn illustrations covering most of the important steps and equipment. The authors, hailing from the world-renowned Andrology Center at Cleveland Clinic, have over 50 years of combined first-hand experience in managing very busy diagnostic and research facilities in male infertility and andrology. The book will be an indispensable resource for thousands of laboratory technologists, clinicians and reproductive professionals (andrologists, embryologist, etc.) engaged in the diagnosis and management of infertile men around the world.

With the advent of Assisted Reproductive Technologies, our understanding of the reproductive system in both men and women has progressed in an exponential manner. Along with this increase in knowledge has emerged new and advanced laboratories performing unique techniques aimed at diagnosing and treating infertility problems. And as these laboratories expand, the need for properly trained technicians has also emerged. But while many ART labs are staffed with biologists well trained in reproductive research techniques, they lack the necessary skills to effectively manage these labs. The Handbook of the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory addresses many of the management issues and basic background information on reproductive biology and medicine needed by the technicians staffing and directing these ART labs. Internationally recognized experts in the field discuss various topics in this handbook, which: Reviews male and female reproductive systems and processes Discusses the clinical diagnosis and management of male and female infertility Provides new information on the state-of-the-art techniques of egg and embryo culture, micromanipulation, and biopsy Presents various aspects of quality control, quality assurance, and clinical laboratory management With its in-depth analysis of management issues, as well as basic background information on reproductive biology and medicine, the Handbook of the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory serves as an ideal guide for current investigation and as a stimulus for future developments in the field.

Updated and expanded, Textbook of Assisted Reproductive Techniques, Second Edition, Laboratory and Clinical Perspectives provides a authoritative manual for the entire IVF team. There are many books on IVF procedure, but none have combined the laboratory and clinical aspects to cover the subject so comprehensively. The book brings together leading medical and scientific experts to describe, in a clear and concise manner, the hows, whys, and reasoning behind ART. The laboratory procedures section provides step-by-step how-tos for setting up the ART laboratory, covering everything that has to do with surroundings, equipment, conditions, quality control, and accreditation for the laboratory. The clinical techniques section discusses patient care from investigation to management to complications. New chapters cover: stem cells, genetic analysis, the role of the nurse, stress and outcomes, management of hydrosalpinx, prognostic assessment of ovarian reserve, quality management, setting up a national registry, health economic aspects, fertility preservation strategies, vitrification of oocytes, and more. One of the things that makes this book so special is its contributors, all of whom are world leaders in the field and experts in their specific topic. The information is presented in a highly visual manner, making methods and protocols easy to find and understand. The book gives research fellows insight into technical developments, provides clinical and scientific teams with the A to Zs of setting up an embryology laboratory, and supplies seasoned professionals with a review of the newest techniques and advances.

Compiled by two experts in Reproductive Medicine, with contributions from internationally respected specialists, this innovative text lets the whole team in Reproductive Medicine get literally on the same page. Taking a cook-book approach to the operational procedures in the laboratory and in the clinic, it details what needs to be prepared in advance, what needs to be prepared earlier the same day, and what steps to take before, during, and after the procedure itself. This is an essential tool for ensuring all staff - whether experienced or starters - can be confident in their tasks and are in touch with what is expected of them and their colleagues.

This book provides andrologists and other practitioners with reliable, up-to-date information on all aspects of male infertility and is designed to assist in the clinical management of patients. Clear guidance is offered on classification of infertility, sperm analysis interpretation and diagnosis. The full range of types and causes of male infertility are then discussed in depth. Particular attention is devoted to poorly understood conditions such as unexplained couple infertility and idiopathic male infertility, but the roles of diverse disorders, health and lifestyle factors and environmental pollution are also fully explored. Research considered stimulating for the reader is highlighted, reflecting the fascinating and controversial nature of the field. International treatment guidelines are presented and the role of diet and dietary supplements is discussed in view of their increasing importance. Clinicians will find that the book’s straightforward approach ensures that it can be easily and rapidly consulted.

Infertility Is Defined As The Inability To Become Pregnannt (In A Woman) Or Cause A Pregnancy (In A Male). The Purpose Of This Book Is To Provide A Stepwise Approach To The Diagnosis And Treatment Of An Infertile Couple. It Describes The Detailed Workup, Such As Hormonal Evaluation And Transvaginal Sonography, That Is Essential For Accurate Diagnosis. The Various Options Available To The Clinician, From Ovulation Induction To Ovum Donation And Cryopresevation, Are Also Explained. The Possible Complications As Well As Failures Are Also Described. It Is Important To Actively Suggest Adoption As An Alternative When Treatment Fails. The Clinician Should Always Offer This Option To Prospective Parents.

"This practical handbook covers the procedures that are undertaken in andrology and ART laboratories to analyze and assess male-factor subfertility, and to prepare spermatozoa for use in assisted conception therapy. Each section includes a brief, authoritative overview of the relevant biological background plus detailed, step-by-step descriptions of relevant analytical procedures. Technical sections include pertinent quality control considerations, as well as the optimum presentation of results. In addition to the basic semen examination, techniques are provided for computer-aided sperm analysis and sperm functional assessment, as well as for the biochemical evaluation of seminal plasma and spermatozoa, and the detection of antisperm antibodies. The interpretation of laboratory results in the clinical context and safe laboratory practice are emphasized throughout the handbook. The handbook is intended to be a resource to scientists and technicians who perform diagnostic testing for male-factor subfertility, including ART laboratories, and also for clinicians who use these test results to manage both general infertility and ART patients"--