Time-Lapse Technology
Types of Embryo Culture Incubators
There are two types of incubators used for embryo culture:
Conventional incubators: When embryos are cultured in conventional incubators, they are removed almost daily for assessment of their development. Even brief exposure outside the incubator can disturb the stable culture conditions (temperature, gases, pH), which are critical for proper embryo development. In addition, evaluation is based only on specific time points and does not capture the full dynamic progression of the embryos.
Time-lapse incubators – EmbryoScope+: With the advancement of time-lapse technology, it is now possible to continuously monitor embryos without disturbing the culture conditions. The EmbryoScope+ is a fully integrated culture and imaging system that combines a stable microenvironment with continuous embryo monitoring.
The system features an integrated camera and specialized microscope that automatically captures images of embryos at regular intervals and multiple focal planes. These images are compiled into a video, providing a complete view of each embryo's development from the earliest hours after fertilization.
EmbryoScope+ is one of the most widely used time-lapse systems worldwide and has become a benchmark in embryo culture and evaluation.
Advantages of EmbryoScope+
Maintaining a stable environment during embryo culture is essential, as any fluctuations can affect embryo development and quality. EmbryoScope+ allows continuous, real-time monitoring of embryos without requiring removal from the incubator, ensuring optimal conditions throughout the culture period.
Time-lapse technology enables detailed recording of embryo development, allowing evaluation not only of morphology but also of dynamic behavior.
Continuous monitoring also enables detection of key developmental events that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing a more complete and reliable assessment of embryo quality.
Additionally, the sequential images are compiled into a video of embryo development, allowing each couple to observe the earliest stages of their embryos' progression.
Artificial Intelligence and IVF
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has played an increasingly important role in assisted reproduction. The EmbryoScope+ incubator integrates the iDAScore (Intelligent Data Analysis Score) algorithm, which analyzes embryo development data and provides an objective ranking based on each embryo's developmental potential.
Unlike traditional evaluation methods that rely on subjective judgment, iDAScore delivers a standardized, objective assessment, reducing variability between different embryologists. This enhances accuracy in selecting embryos, particularly in cases where morphological appearance is similar.
Artificial intelligence acts as a supportive tool for the embryologist, helping make more evidence-based decisions and selecting embryos with the highest implantation potential.
