A groundbreaking advancement in IVF technology promises improved success rates for couples seeking fertility treatment. The innovation, termed the ‘soft touch’ technique or Piezo-ICSI, is poised to become more widely accessible following encouraging results from the largest Australian study conducted on the method.
Piezo-ICSI employs a delicate approach, utilizing high-speed vibration to gently penetrate an egg, in contrast to the conventional cutting action employed in standard ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). Introduced to Australia by Monash IVF as part of clinical trials in 2019, the technique has already contributed to the birth of hundreds of babies.
In the recent comprehensive study conducted by Monash IVF, 108 patients from New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland participated, marking the most extensive examination of Piezo-ICSI in Australia. The study compared the efficacy of Piezo-ICSI against standard ICSI, with half of the participants undergoing fertilization using each method. The selection of the initial injection type was randomized to ensure impartiality.
Results from the research revealed that Piezo-ICSI led to a fertilization rate of 71.6%, outperforming the 65.6% rate observed with standard ICSI. Additionally, the study found that eggs subjected to the gentler Piezo-ICSI method suffered half as much damage post-fertilization, while the quality of resulting embryos was notably higher.
Dr. Jinny Foo, a fertility specialist and researcher at Monash IVF Parramatta, highlighted the significance of these findings, stating, “While pregnancy and birth rates remain comparable between the two techniques, our research underscores the potential of the soft touch approach to reduce the number of IVF cycles required for conception.”
Dr. Foo further emphasized, “With compelling evidence from multiple trials, Piezo-ICSI holds promise in enhancing fertilization success rates and, hopefully, enabling more individuals and couples to realize their aspirations of starting a family.”
Presently, the technology is accessible at select Monash IVF clinics across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia, with plans for expansion into additional clinics and states. Eligible patients seeking the gentler form of ICSI can access the treatment through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) special access scheme.
“For our fertility patients, particularly those facing age-related challenges, the availability of this technology is a source of optimism,” remarked Dr. Foo. “Even the possibility of obtaining one additional embryo could be transformative, potentially fulfilling their long-held dreams of parenthood.”
