Assisted Zona Hatching - AZH

Assisted Zona Hatching, also known as AZH, is another microsurgical procedure performed in the IVF laboratory. AZH is a procedure performed on all embryos prior to transfer to the uterus on Day 3 of embryo development. This is done in order to increase the chance of embryo implantation and pregnancy. Each human embryo is surrounded by a shell called the Zona Pellucida. The embryo must break out of the Zona Pellucida in order for implantation to occur. An unusually thick Zona Pellucida is thought to reduce the likelihood of implantation and pregnancy. Therefore by creating an artificial opening in the Zona Pellucida, the likelihood of implantation increases.

Procedure:

Assisted hatching is performed using micromanipulation instruments attached to a microscope. The embryo is held in position by gentle suction from a micropipette. An opening is created in the zona pellucida using a fine glass needle. The needle never comes in contact with the embryo but allows for an incision to be made in the outer shell. This procedure is performed in a drop of nutrient medium and after the procedure the embryo is returned to the culture until the embryo transfer procedure is performed. This opening is thought to facilitate hatching, which normally takes place in the uterus, and enhances contact with the lining of the uterus.

AZH Value:

Assisted hatching is most useful for the following types of patients:

• Patients older than 38 years of age
• Patients with elevated levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
• Patients with embryos that have thicker than normal zona pellucida
• Patients with previous multiple IVF attempts with failed implantation

Next Steps:

For more information regarding AZH, please send us an online inquiry, so we can learn more about you and your situation.