Time-lapse imaging: Morphokinetic analysis of in vitro fertilization outcomes

Abstract

Time-lapse imaging (TLI) allows continuous monitoring of embryo development without disturbing culture conditions by removing embryos from the incubator. The study of embryo kinetics using TLI has given rise to some new markers for embryo selection that are able to document and evaluate embryo morphology and the timing of developmental events through continuous live image tracking. Time-lapse imaging has emerged as a powerful tool for creating predictive models of in vitro fertilization outcomes. Fourty-seven articles were included in the present review to investigate the current situation of TLI in in vitro fertilization laboratories. Morphokinetics of the embryo during its in vitro development have been described using parameters indicative of the different events capable of predicting the ability to reach blastocyst stage, implantation and pregnancy rates, live birth outcome, and embryo ploidy.

Keywords: IVF outcomes; Time-lapse imaging; morphokinetics; noninvasive methodologies.