Development of a new reproductive tissue cryopreservation clinical service for children: the Oxford programme

K Lakhoo1,2, J Davies3, S Chakraborty4

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, University of Oxford and Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK. Kokila.lakhoo@nds.ox.ac.uk.

Insights

A new fertility preservation service was developed for children at risk of infertility. This reproductive tissue cryopreservation program offers safe and effective treatment, prioritizing patient proximity to home.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive medicine
  • Oncology
  • Paediatric healthcare

Background:

  • Children undergoing cancer treatment face risks of infertility.
  • The NHS sought to establish fertility preservation services amidst financial constraints.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the development of a reproductive tissue cryopreservation service for children at high risk of infertility.
  • To outline the phased implementation within the NHS.

Main Methods:

  • A two-phase development plan was implemented.
  • Phase 1 focused on childhood cancer patients at a specific treatment center.
  • Phase 2 expanded the service across England, Wales, and Ireland, addressing resource challenges and patient accessibility.

Main Results:

  • Developed comprehensive information resources, eligibility criteria, and referral pathways.
  • Established multidisciplinary teams and a network of third-party sites.
  • Secured a dedicated theatre list and implemented a case management database, receiving positive patient feedback.

Conclusions:

  • The Oxford Reproductive Cryopreservation programme successfully provides fertility preservation to pediatric and young adult patients.
  • The program operates safely, effectively, and with a focus on patient convenience.
  • Future plans include seeking national funding for program sustainability and recognition.
Abstract

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