Assisted Hatching
Also written as: AH — Assisted Hatching
A laboratory technique that creates an opening in the zona pellucida to facilitate embryo implantation.
Full Definition
Assisted hatching is an embryological procedure designed to help embryos emerge from their protective zona pellucida shell before implantation. The technique involves creating a small opening or thinning the zona pellucida using laser, acidic solutions, or mechanical methods. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with previous implantation failures, advanced maternal age, thick zona pellucida, or frozen embryo transfers where zona hardening may have occurred. While assisted hatching may improve implantation rates in selected cases, it also carries risks including embryo damage and increased risk of monozygotic twinning. The decision to perform assisted hatching should be individualized based on specific patient and embryo characteristics.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the method used (laser, chemical, mechanical) when documenting assisted hatching.
In Context
- "Assisted hatching was performed using laser technology prior to frozen embryo transfer." — Laboratory procedure note
- "The thick zona pellucida observed warranted assisted hatching to improve implantation potential." — Embryology report