Developing a novel device, Eggcell, to improve temperature stability during oocyte collection for IVF

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Medical device engineering

Background:

• Oocyte retrieval procedures can expose oocytes to temperature fluctuations.
• Maintaining a stable physiological temperature is crucial for oocyte viability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate temperature changes during standard oocyte retrieval.
• To design and validate a novel device, Eggcell, to minimize temperature fluctuations.

Main Methods:

• Mock oocyte retrievals were conducted to measure temperature changes.
• Laboratory validation of the Eggcell device was performed.
• Human participants (n=15) were involved in initial safety and applicability testing.

Main Results:

• Eggcell successfully maintained follicular fluid temperature within the physiological range.
• No loss or damage to oocytes (cumulus-oocyte complexes, COCs) was observed in 180 retrievals.
• Fertilization rates, blastocyst development, and clinical outcomes were not compromised.

Conclusions:

• The Eggcell device demonstrates successful initial development for temperature-stable oocyte retrieval.
• Further comparative studies are required to evaluate clinical outcomes against standard methods.