Advanced ART Course for Embryologists
An opportunity for "Hands-on Training"
This course will provide a common knowledge set appropriate for the broad range of health care professionals involved in the treatment of the infertile couple that proceeds to ART, provide training in the assessment of parameters of gametes and embryos, laboratory technologies, and laboratory management as well as assisting embryologists in identifying strategies for improving the IVF laboratory. This online course will provide an easily accessible and detailed content in the field of basic and advanced ART laboratory techniques as well as provide critical basic science and background information
Objectives
- To divulge a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the ART laboratory, including the set-up and running of the lab, specific procedures, and quality control to ensure the highest possible success rates in an IVF program.
- To provide each apprentice an opportunity to have a complete learning experience.
- Faculty will work one-on-one with trainees throughout the course, providing a total overview and continuous assessment.
- Targeted at the beginner as well as experienced embryologist, the course aims to refresh his or her skills further in the field of ART.
- Review the physiology and pathophysiology of male and female reproductive function.
- Review the principles of cell biology and molecular biology as it pertains to embryologists.
- Describe the key elements of the ART laboratory management and function.
- Identify basic and advanced techniques used in the ART laboratory.
- Analyze present strategies for improving the function of the ART laboratory
| S.NO # |
Introduction to lab procedures, equipment and apparatus, consumables, handling of pipettes and pumps |
Embryo cleavage, blastocysts, and culture medium |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aliquoting, aseptic technique, drawn-out pipettes | Embryo selection, embryo replacement |
| 2 | Sperm preparation: assessment, cryopreservation, preparation for IVF and ICSI stimulation protocols) |
Cryopreservation |
| 3 | Forecast and setup for cases | Setting up an IVF lab |
| 4 | Oocyte retrieval, grading of oocytes and insemination | Quality control and maintenance, record-keeping |
| 5 | ICSI: Alignment of injection needles and immobilisation of sperm other micromanipulation techniques |
Troubleshooting |
Eligibility
- Medical graduate or Post-graduates with a doctorate in an appropriate area of life sciences.
- In the case of a clinic in existence for at least one year before the promulgation of ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) ART guidelines, an applicant with a B Sc (Bachelor of Science) or BV Sc (Bachelor of Veterinary Science) degree would be acceptable for training as a clinical embryologist.
Target Audience
This activity is designed to meet the educational needs of new and experienced clinicians, laboratory scientists and allied health professionals with an interest in ART laboratory technologies for the evaluation and treatment of the infertile couple.
Course Structure
- Semen analysis, sperm preparation techniques for IUI, IVF, ICSI
- Aseptic techniques & handling of liquid nitrogen
- Media preparation for ART requirements.
- Handling & processing of testicular biopsy samples.
- Screening of oocytes from follicular fluid.
- Preparation of oocytes for IVF & insemination techniques.
- Grading & selection of embryos for transfer.
- Vitrification & warming (oocytes & embryos).
- Micromanipulation techniques.
- Embryo loading in catheters.