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Chapter 26 - Methods to Select Ejaculated, Epididymal, and Testicular Spermatozoa for Assisted Conception

from Section 4 - Laboratory Evaluation and Treatment of Male Infertility

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 December 2023

By
Sergey I. Moskovtsev ,
Michal Dviri  and
Clifford L. Librach
Edited by
Douglas T. Carrell ,
Alexander W. Pastuszak  and
James M. Hotaling
Douglas T. Carrell
Affiliation:
Utah Center for Reproductive Medicine
Alexander W. Pastuszak
Affiliation:
University of Utah
James M. Hotaling
Affiliation:
Utah Center for Reproductive Medicine
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Summary

The quality of selected spermatozoa is crucial for the success of assisted reproduction. However, selecting the “best sperm” from an ejaculate or surgically retrieved sample remains challenging. In this chapter, we have reviewed conventional, advanced, and emerging sperm selection techniques, including the most up-to-date reliable evidence-based resources, with emphasis on sperm selection methods and clinical outcomes. Current selection techniques are manual and prone to subjective judgment or experience and effort of laboratory personnel. Despite the large number of publications, the available evidences are not sufficient to support any specific sperm selection technique. The only unanimous agreement thus far is that well-designed, large-scale, sufficiently powered randomized controlled studies are required to evaluate sperm selection techniques; these may include personalized sperm selection, machine learning, and robotics strategies aimed at improving outcomes of assisted reproduction.

Keywords

IVFICSIARTsperm selectionIUI
Type
Chapter
Information
Men's Reproductive and Sexual Health Throughout the Lifespan
An Integrated Approach to Fertility, Sexual Function, and Vitality
 , pp. 204 - 209
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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