Sample interview questions: Can you explain the process of embryo grading for selection and transfer during IVF cycles?
Sample answer:
Can you explain the process of embryo grading for selection and transfer during IVF cycles?
Embryo grading is a crucial step in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycles, where the quality of embryos is assessed to select the most viable candidates for transfer into the uterus. The grading process involves evaluating various morphological and developmental features of the embryos.
Morphological Assessment:
- Cleavage rate: The number of cells present at specific time points, such as day 3 or day 5, determines the embryo’s developmental potential.
- Symmetry: The uniformity of cell division and the presence of unequal or fragmented blastomeres is assessed.
- Compaction: The degree of cell-cell adhesion within the embryo, usually observed on day 3.
- Trophoectoderm: The outer layer of cells responsible for forming the placenta is examined for its thickness and uniformity.
- Inner cell mass: The inner cell mass will give rise to the fetus and is evaluated for its size and morphology.
Developmental Assessment:
- Blastocyst formation: The embryo’s transition from the morula stage to a blastocyst cavity-containing structure is a critical milestone.
- Trophoblast expansion: The expansion and integrity of the trophoblast layer indicate the embryo’s ability to adhere to the uterine lining.
- Inner cell mass proliferation: The presence of a large and well-developed inner cell mass is indic… Read full answer