Time-lapse videography for embryo selection/de-selection: a bright future or fading star?

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine and Embryology
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Technology

Background:

• Time-lapse videography (TLV) is increasingly used in IVF laboratories for embryo assessment.
• While TLV provides uninterrupted embryo culture, its routine clinical application requires further evidence.
• The transferability of embryo selection algorithms between different laboratories presents a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate current time-lapse embryo selection and de-selection algorithms.
• To discuss challenges hindering the widespread clinical adoption of TLV-based embryo selection.
• To propose future research directions for improving TLV algorithm development and validation.

Main Methods:

• Commentary and critical analysis of existing literature and practices in time-lapse embryo selection.
• Discussion of key issues including quantitative vs. qualitative parameters in algorithms.
• Examination of the impact of timing system reference points and dataset types on algorithm performance.

Main Results:

• Current evidence does not fully support the routine clinical application of all TLV-based embryo selection methods.
• Algorithm extrapolation between laboratories is a major hurdle due to variations in methodology and data.
• Several factors, including parameter definition and data standardization, require careful consideration.

Conclusions:

• Time-lapse imaging holds promise for IVF, but robust, validated algorithms are essential for clinical integration.
• Addressing issues of algorithm standardization and inter-laboratory validation is crucial for future advancements.
• Further research should focus on developing and validating algorithms that are reliable and transferable across diverse IVF settings.