How many embryos survive PGT-A / PGS testing?
Does genetic testing have impact on survival rate of embryos?
Genetic testing is suggested in some clinics for all embryos and couples, in others only where there is indication for it. What impact has the biopsy on embryos and what statistics can say about it?
PGT-A is a relatively safe procedure for embryos. We now know that, especially when performed on day 5, since the cells studied belong to what will become the placenta, we do not damage or disturb the embryos. Although the success of the procedure depends on the expertise and skills of the biologist performing the biopsy, we freeze more than 98% of the embryos in which we carry out the biopsy. This success rate also depends on the quality of the embryos. It is not the same to perform a biopsy on an AA blastocyst as on a BC blastocyst, which has a higher chance of not responding well after the biopsy. Therefore, the skills of the biologist and the quality of the embryo are the most determinant factors in determining the chances of survival after the technique.
This question is forwarded to the embryologist as they are responsible for the embryo biopsies, the procedure of aspiration of the cells from the blastocyst so the embryologist is an important person with important technical skills. If the embryologist relies on the morphology of the embryo and thinks the embryo is a very good developing embryo and can reapply a blastocyst biopsy then the chance of losing this embryo after biopsy is very small. However, if the embryo is not well developed and the biopsy of the embryologist is moderate, then the survival rate depends on this and won’t be very high.
Related questions
What is the PGT-A strategy for patients with implantation failure?