Charalampos Siristatidis – Maria Aggeliki Komitopoulou – Andreas Makris – Afrodite Sialakouma – Mitrodora Botzaki – George Mastorakos – George Salamalekis – Stefano Bettocchi – Giles Anthony Palmer

Abstract

Purpose To compare the outcomes of embryos selected via time lapse monitoring (TLM) versus those selected with conventional methods of selection in subfertile women undergoing ICSI.
Methods The study population (239 women) was classified into two groups, based on the monitoring method used: Group 1 (TLM) and Group 2 (conventional monitoring). Groups were compared according to the clinical and ICSI cycle characteristics and reproductive outcomes, while transfers were performed at day 2 or 3. Subgroup analyses were performed, in women of both groups according to age and clinical parameters, and in embryos of Group 1 based on their cellular events.
Results There was a statistically significant difference between the two study groups with regard to the outcome parameters, favoringGroup 1 and especially inwomen >40 years of age. No differences were found in subgroup analyses in participants of both groups, regarding the stimulation protocol used, number of the oocytes retrieved and type of subfertility, while in Group 1 the percentages of “in range” cellular events were higher in certain divisions in ages 35–40, non-smokers, and the GnRH-agonist group, and in embryos that resulted in pregnancy.
Conclusion Morphokinetic parameters of early embryo development via TLM are related to the characteristics of subfertile patients and associated with ICSI outcomes.