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Embryos
are surrounded by a membrane known as the zona pellucida.
In order for the embryo to implant into the lining of
the uterus it must "hatch" through this membrane.
Assisted
hatching, is a process that facilitates penetration
of the zona pellucida. A small hole is made in the membrane
weakening it and making hatching easier.
Assisted
hatching is performed chemically using an acid solution
such as Acid Tyrode's, by a microscopic needle, or with
the laser. Assisted hatching is usually used for patients
who fail IVF for unknown reasons, have poor quality
embryos, are of advanced age, or in other cases as determined
by the reproductive endocrinologist and embryologist.
See
the specialists articles for a detailed discussion of
assisted hatching.
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