Spindle View ICSI
In patients showing poor fertilization with IVF or ICSI, Spindle view ICSI helps to achieve better fertilization. It also provides a more detailed analysis of egg quality.
In eggs, meiotic spindle forms for the final maturation of eggs, During conventional ICSI, when injecting the sperm, we should not damage this spindle to achieve good fertilization.
Spindle view uses a specialized polarized microscope or Polscope to visualize these meiotic spindles.
To achieve better fertilization
Visualizing meiotic spindles can also give an option of aligning oocytes for ICSI. For conventional ICSI, we use the polar body as a surrogate marker for spindle location. In some patients, the spindle is displaced from the polar body, and this can cause potential damage to the spindle at the time of ICSI. If we use polscope and align the spindles, this damage can be minimized. In a study by Elham Asa et al. Fertilization rate in spindle aligned group was higher than the control group.
To assess oocyte egg quality
In patients with repeated poor-quality embryos, there can be factors related to sperm or/and eggs. There are various tests like sperm DNA fragmentation available for evaluating sperm factors apart from conventional semen examination. However, to evaluate oocyte quality presence OR absence of meiotic spindle can be a useful marker. Spindle length and spindle area have also been suggested as a marker of the quality of eggs.
When does Spindle view ICSI help ?
Spindle View ICSI is an advanced micromanipulation technique that enhances precision during fertilization. Using polarized light microscopy, our embryologists can visualize the meiotic spindle — a delicate structure inside the egg responsible for chromosome alignment.
By identifying the exact position of the spindle before sperm injection, we ensure minimal disturbance to the egg, leading to better fertilization and embryo development outcomes.
When Does Spindle View ICSI Help?
1. Patients with Poor Fertilization in IVF or Conventional ICSI
Some couples experience low or failed fertilization despite normal sperm and egg quality.
In such cases, Spindle View ICSI allows embryologists to avoid spindle damage during sperm injection. Since the spindle ensures proper chromosome separation, this careful approach can significantly improve fertilization success and embryo quality.
2. Patients Developing Poor-Quality Embryos in IVF
Poor embryo quality often results from subtle abnormalities in the egg that aren’t visible under standard microscopes.
With Spindle View ICSI, the embryologist can inject sperm in an optimal position, supporting accurate chromosome alignment and better oocyte activation.
This can lead to healthier embryos and higher chances of implantation and pregnancy.
3. Patients with Very Few Eggs or Low AMH Levels
For women with low ovarian reserve or very low AMH, every egg is invaluable.
Spindle View ICSI helps protect each egg from mechanical or chromosomal damage, maximizing the chance of fertilization and embryo formation from every retrieved oocyte.
This makes it an ideal choice for patients where each egg counts in achieving pregnancy success.