Advances in IVF Lab Technology: Time-Lapse Imaging to Improve Embryo Development
The New Frontier of Embryo Assessment: Beyond the Microscope
Advancements in in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory technology, particularly time-lapse imaging, have transformed embryo monitoring and selection processes. This technology enables continuous observation of embryo development without disturbing the culture environment, offering embryologists detailed insights into developmental milestones.
Time-Lapse Embryo Monitoring: Continuous Developmental Tracking
Traditional embryo assessment involves periodic observations, requiring embryos to be removed from their incubators, potentially disrupting their stable environment. Time-lapse imaging addresses this by incorporating cameras within incubators, capturing continuous images of embryos without disturbance. This method allows embryologists to observe critical developmental milestones and select embryos with higher implantation potential. Several companies have developed time-lapse imaging systems:
Key Systems and Manufacturers
EmbryoScope+ (Vitrolife)
24/7 imaging without disturbing culture conditions
Tracks 7 developmental parameters automatically
Used in >1,000 clinics worldwide
GERI (Genea Biomedx)
Individual embryo chambers with gas regulation
6-minute imaging intervals
Improves blastocyst rates by 18% (clinical studies)
CCM-iBIS (Astec)
Compact and user-friendly
9 chambers
These systems integrate a camera and microscope within the incubator that captures images at specified time frames to create time-lapse videos of embryo development. This technology keeps the embryo to minimal exposure to disruptive elements such as air, light, and movement. We’ve only named a few, but we promise you that there are more and more companies developing these types of incubators!
Proven Benefits
The detailed data obtained through time-lapse imaging assist embryologists in selecting embryos with the highest potential for successful implantation. Studies have shown that this technology can enhance embryo selection processes, leading to improved pregnancy and live birth rates.
23% increase in live birth rates (Fertility & Sterility 2023)
Christina Bergh and Kersti Lundin did not see improvement in livebirth rates by time-lapse technology
Also, Priya Bhide and group (2024) don’t see clinical effectiveness either!
The IVF Kitchen is always going to show you both sides so you can be better informed!
41% reduction in subjective grading variability
Earlier detection of abnormal cleavage patterns
Elimination of embryo stress from manual checks
Additional Costs
Of course, no service is free in this world. These time-lapse incubators are not cheap and they require specialized dishes that cost a significant amount. It is typical of clinics to move these costs to the patient. You may be asked to pay for these services even if you don’t want them!
What If My Clinic Doesn’t Have This?
It’s perfectly normal and still quite standard in the IVF field for IVF clinics to use old technology. This old technology is simply a traditional incubator that is temperature and gas-controlled. It has no windows or fancy camera technology, so embryologists have to take the embryos in and out in order to assess their development and quality. There’s nothing wrong with the old-fashioned way, right? If ain’t broke then don’t fix it mentality!
Can you ask your clinic to get this technology?
Chances are they’ll say no. It takes significant planning and costs to set this technology up. If this is something you want, then you can ask the clinic before starting a cycle with them.
Patient Considerations
✔ Ask if your clinic uses time-lapse incubators
✔ Request access to your time-lapse videos
✔ Understand how technology affects embryo selection criteria
✔ Compare the clinic's published outcomes with/without these tools
While these technologies add cost, their ability to reduce failed cycles and improve success rates makes them valuable investments for many patients. As these technologies continue to evolve, ongoing research and clinical validation are essential to fully establish their efficacy and optimize their application in reproductive medicine.
“Word in the incubator is—they’re being watched 24/7. Yeah, time-lapse cameras. Zero privacy. Total Big Brother: Embryo Edition.”
