Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
Pronunciation: ICK-see
Also written as: ICSI — Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
A specialized IVF technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg.
Full Definition
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection is an advanced laboratory technique used in conjunction with IVF where a single sperm is mechanically injected directly into the cytoplasm of a mature egg using a fine needle. ICSI is particularly beneficial for couples with severe male factor infertility, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. This procedure bypasses the natural fertilization process and significantly improves fertilization rates in cases where conventional IVF may fail.
Usage
Usage note: Always use the acronym ICSI in clinical documentation; avoid confusion with simpler insemination procedures.
In Context
- "ICSI was recommended due to the male partner's oligoasthenoteratozoospermia." — consultation notes
- "The embryologist performed ICSI on twelve mature oocytes with excellent fertilization rates." — laboratory report