The Istanbul consensus update: a revised ESHRE/ALPHA consensus on oocyte and embryo static and dynamic morphological...

Area of Science:

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

Background:

• The previous consensus on oocyte and embryo morphological assessment was established in 2011.
• Advancements in time-lapse technology necessitate an updated review and revised recommendations.
• A decade of progress in embryo culture and assessment requires current best practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish current recommended criteria for the morphological assessment of oocytes, zygotes, and embryos.
• To provide updated guidelines for ranking embryos for transfer based on morphology.
• To integrate new evidence and technologies into established assessment protocols.

Main Methods:

• A working group of 17 experts from Alpha Scientists in Reproductive Medicine and ESHRE formulated recommendations.
• Recommendations were based on a systematic literature search and reassessment of the 2011 Istanbul Consensus.
• A stakeholder review and final approval by ESHRE and Alpha executive committees ensured consensus.

Main Results:

• The updated consensus paper presents 20 recommendations for preimplantation developmental events and morphological criteria.
• Specific guidance is provided on the frequency and timing of assessments during embryo culture.
• Recommendations address the use of certain criteria for grading versus ranking embryos.

Conclusions:

• The document offers embryologists advice on best practices for assessing oocyte and embryo quality.
• It highlights areas where further research is needed regarding specific morphological criteria.
• These Good Practice Recommendations (GPRs) serve as an educational guide, not a strict standard of care.