This course will be a hands-on step-by-step training in performing ICSI: set-up of the micromanipulation equipment, installing pipettes, ICSI dish preparation, sperm selection, sperm immobilization, injection of sperm cell in an oocyte witnessing as well as other laboratory preparations necessary pre-and-post-ICSI.
Course objectives
- To learn about the practice of Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection
- To become familiar with micromanipulation equipment
- To learn about sperm selection for ICSI
- To have hands-on training in ICSI
- To learn about error prevention during the ICSI procedure
Target audience
Lab technicians, clinical embryologists, and research scientists with little or no ICSI experience wishing to learn the basics of the ICSI technique.
Educational needs and expected outcomes
The course aims to provide you with: - Knowledge on the technical aspects of sperm preparation (ejaculate, epididymal or testicular sperm) and oocyte preparation for ICSI
- An introduction to the ICSI equipment set-up, including choice of microtools and troubleshooting
- Hands-on training - step by step - in ICSI
Educational methods
- Demonstration
- Hands-on training with hamster oocytes and human sperm
- Guided Visit to the Livingston NJ IVF Laboratories
This course does not involve any observation of clinical work or use of human oocytes or embryos.
Minimal expertise required for participation in the Course
Each delegate should have some general embryology experience; though no experience of ICSI is needed, it is advisable for participants to do background reading and ideally some in-house basic training on ICSI equipment set-up
Certificate of attendance
Participants obtain a certificate of attendance after attending the course and completing the course evaluation at the end of the course.
Course Format
A two-day hands-on course in the laboratory of the CooperSurgical Center of Excellence.