Professional
Technical
IVT
Fragmentation
The presence of membrane-bound cytoplasmic particles in embryos that lack nuclei, used as a quality assessment parameter.
Full Definition
Fragmentation refers to the formation of small, anuclear cytoplasmic particles between blastomeres during early embryo development. These fragments result from various cellular stresses and are considered indicators of reduced embryo quality and developmental potential. Fragmentation is typically assessed as a percentage of total embryo volume and categorized as minimal (<10%), mild (10-25%), moderate (25-50%), or severe (>50%). High fragmentation levels correlate with decreased implantation rates and increased pregnancy loss risk.
Usage
Usage note: Usually expressed as percentage of total embryo volume.
In Context
- "The day-3 embryo showed minimal fragmentation at less than 5% of total volume." — Embryology assessment
- "High fragmentation levels prompted the decision to culture embryos to blastocyst stage." — Treatment planning
Also known as
embryo fragmentation
cytoplasmic fragments
Don't confuse with
blastomere
zona pellucida debris