IMSI by Leica

Ultra-High Magnification Sperm Selection for Advanced ICSI Treatment

At SAFE Fertility Group, we provide IMSI by Leica as an advanced sperm selection technology used to support assisted reproductive treatment, especially in cases where sperm quality is an important concern.

IMSI, or Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection, is a specialized technique that allows embryologists to examine sperm under ultra-high magnification before selecting sperm for ICSI. This helps identify sperm with better morphology and supports more precise sperm selection for fertilization.

 

What is IMSI?

 

IMSI is an advanced sperm selection method used together with ICSI.

In conventional ICSI, sperm are usually selected under optical magnification of approximately 200x to 400x. With IMSI, motile sperm are examined under ultra-high magnification of 6,000x or higher.

This higher magnification allows the embryologist to observe fine structural details of the sperm head that may not be visible under standard magnification. These details may include small abnormalities or vacuoles that could affect sperm quality.

By selecting sperm with the most normal-looking structure, IMSI may help support fertilization, embryo development, and overall treatment planning in selected cases.

 

What is IMSI by Leica?

 

IMSI by Leica combines IMSI and ICSI techniques with the optical precision of Leica microscopy technology.

The system uses high-quality Leica optics and a motorized 3-plate stage to allow detailed visualization of sperm morphology at ultra-high magnification. This enables embryologists to carefully assess sperm structure before selecting the most suitable sperm for injection into the egg.

With this technology, some sperm organelle malformations or structural abnormalities that may not be detectable with conventional magnification can be observed more clearly.

 

How IMSI by Leica Works

 

During IMSI, the embryologist examines motile sperm under ultra-high magnification and classifies them according to their morphology.

The main focus is on the sperm head, especially the presence, size, and number of vacuoles. Vacuoles are small spaces or abnormalities that may appear in the sperm head and may reflect sperm quality concerns.

After careful assessment, sperm are selected based on the most normal morphology before being used for ICSI.

 

Sperm Classification in IMSI

 

Under ultra-high magnification, sperm can be classified into three main quality groups:

Class I: Good Quality Sperm

This group includes:

• ๐ Normal sperm with no vacuoles

• ๐ Normal sperm with very small vacuoles

• ๐ Normal sperm with vacuoles of 4% or less of the sperm head area

• ๐ Sperm containing only one or two small vacuoles

Class I sperm are usually selected first when available.

 

Class II: Fair Quality Sperm

This group includes:

• ๐ Normal-shaped sperm with vacuoles greater than 4% of the sperm head area

• ๐ Sperm containing more than two small vacuoles

• ๐ Sperm containing one large vacuole

Class II sperm may be considered if Class I sperm are not available.

 

Class III: Poor Quality Sperm

This group includes:

• ๐ Abnormally shaped sperm

• ๐ Sperm with significant morphological abnormalities

Class III sperm are generally considered only when higher-quality sperm are not available.

The embryologist will prioritize sperm selection in the following order: Class I first, followed by Class II, and then Class III when necessary.

 

Why Perform IMSI by Leica?

 

IMSI by Leica may be recommended to improve sperm selection in assisted reproductive treatment, particularly when sperm morphology or previous treatment outcomes are a concern.

The potential benefits of IMSI include:

• ๐ Supporting the selection of sperm with better morphology

• ๐ Helping improve the chance of good-quality embryo development

• ๐ Supporting blastocyst development

• ๐ Supporting implantation potential

• ๐ Helping improve pregnancy outcomes in selected cases

• ๐ Helping reduce the risk of miscarriage associated with sperm quality concerns in selected cases

The effectiveness of IMSI depends on each patient’s condition and must be assessed together with other fertility factors, including egg quality, embryo quality, female age, uterine condition, and previous treatment history.

 

Who May Benefit from IMSI?

 

IMSI may be suitable for couples or patients in cases such as:

• ๐ Severe male factor infertility

• ๐ Poor sperm morphology

• ๐ Previous failed ICSI cycles

• ๐ Poor embryo development in previous treatment

• ๐ Low fertilization rates in previous cycles

• ๐ Recurrent implantation failure

• ๐ History of miscarriage where sperm quality may be a contributing factor

• ๐ Couples who require advanced sperm selection before ICSI

• ๐ Patients whose fertility specialist recommends detailed sperm morphology assessment

A consultation with a fertility specialist is important to determine whether IMSI is appropriate for each treatment plan.

 

IMSI and ICSI Treatment Process

 

1. Fertility Consultation

The doctor reviews the couple’s fertility history, semen analysis results, previous IVF or ICSI outcomes, and treatment goals.

 

2. Semen Collection

The male partner provides a semen sample on the day of treatment or as instructed by the medical team.

 

3. Sperm Preparation

The semen sample is processed in the laboratory to prepare motile sperm for selection.

 

4. Ultra-High Magnification Assessment

The embryologist examines sperm under ultra-high magnification using IMSI by Leica technology.

 

5. Sperm Classification

Sperm are assessed and classified based on morphology, including head shape and vacuole characteristics.

 

6. Sperm Selection

The embryologist selects the sperm with the most normal appearance, prioritizing Class I sperm whenever possible.

 

7. ICSI Procedure

The selected sperm is injected directly into a mature egg using the ICSI technique.

 

8. Embryo Culture and Monitoring

The fertilized egg is cultured and monitored in the laboratory until the embryo reaches the appropriate stage for transfer, freezing, or genetic testing, depending on the treatment plan.

 

Why Choose SAFE Fertility Group for IMSI by Leica?

 

SAFE Fertility Group provides IMSI by Leica with advanced laboratory technology, experienced embryologists, and personalized fertility care.

 

Ultra-High Magnification Technology

IMSI allows detailed sperm morphology assessment at magnification of 6,000x or higher.

 

Leica Optical Quality

The Leica system supports high-resolution sperm evaluation and precise sperm selection.

 

Experienced Embryology Team

Our embryologists carefully assess sperm morphology and select sperm according to strict laboratory procedures.

 

Integration with ICSI

IMSI can be combined with ICSI to support fertilization in selected male factor infertility cases.

 

Personalized Treatment Planning

The doctor and embryology team evaluate each case individually to determine whether IMSI may be beneficial.

 

Advanced Fertility Laboratory Support

SAFE provides fertility treatment under professional laboratory standards, focusing on safety, precision, and quality control.

 

Advanced Sperm Selection with SAFE

 

IMSI by Leica is an advanced sperm selection technique designed to support more precise sperm selection for ICSI. It may be especially useful for couples facing male fertility challenges, poor sperm morphology, previous failed treatment cycles, or embryo development concerns.

At SAFE Fertility Group, our fertility specialists and embryology team are ready to provide personalized consultation, advanced laboratory technology, and professional support throughout your fertility journey.

Contact SAFE Fertility Group today to schedule a personal consultation and learn whether IMSI by Leica is suitable for your treatment plan.

SAFE Fertility Group offers IMSI by Leica, an advanced sperm selection technology for ICSI treatment. It uses ultra-high magnification (6,000x or higher) to improve sperm selection based on morphology. This service is ideal for cases with severe male infertility or previous treatment failures.