Title
microICSI performs comparably to Conventional ICSI and demonstrates ease of use for new users
Introduction:
microICSI is a new intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) device developed by Fertilis Pty Ltd that simplifies the procedure by using only one set of micromanipulators. It eliminates the need for a holding pipette through a microwell design that stabilizes the oocyte during injection. Previous studies in porcine models and human discarded oocytes suggested improvements in developmental and procedural efficiency.
Objective:
To evaluate the ease of use and subsequent fertilization outcomes of microICSI compared to conventional ICSI (cICSI) with research-only human MII oocytes.
Methods:
Vitrified, delayed maturation human MII oocytes (n=106, obtained with informed consent) were randomized into either cICSI (n=52) or microICSI (n=54). ICSI was performed by 5 embryologists across 3 different clinics over 2 separate days. Injection setup and procedure times were recorded. All materials were disposed of after evaluation. Statistical analysis performed using Fisher’s exact test (proportions) and t-tests (procedure times).
Results:
The normal fertilization (2PN) rate was 57% for microICSI and 58% for cICSI. Total fertilization rates were 80% for microICSI and 73% for cICSI (P=0.49). Oocyte lysis rates trended lower with microICSI (3%) compared to cICSI (10%), though the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.26). These outcomes were consistent with previously published ESHRE2025.
Average setup+ICSI times (min:sec):
- cICSI: 02:42
- microICSI: 02:32
Average injection time alone was marginally shorter for microICSI. Notably, at one site (Namba Clinic), microICSI was consistently faster.
Conclusions:
Embryologists using microICSI for the first time were able to achieve results comparable to conventional ICSI, with only minimal training. This highlights its usability and low training burden.
Poster:
microICSI is designed to make intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) suction-free, simpler and more controlled, with fewer manipulations and less time under the microscope.
microBiopsy is a purpose-designed approach to blastocyst biopsy designed to improve procedural consistency while reducing technical burden across operators.
