Our Laboratories
At TasIVF, our goal is to provide the framework for a standard Virtus laboratory methodology to the highest international standard in embryology across every embryology lab. This framework will ensure, enabling us to benchmark and improve upon these results for our patients, ultimately contributing to our success rates.
24/7 Embryo Tank Monitoring
Our stored embryos don’t need a power source to stay frozen but what they do need is liquid nitrogen in every tank. We have digital monitors attached to every storage tank to check the levels of liquid nitrogen which is in continuous contact with our security system where we have an embryologist on call 24 hours a day.
Our security system monitors every tank and freezer across TasIVF. You can see the liquid nitrogen tanks are at -193 degrees and that’s almost as cold as it’s possible to get. At that temperature, cells, eggs, sperm can embryos can survive almost forever. The system checks the temperature of our tanks and freezers every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day. If an alarm goes off, alerts are sent to the embryologist who reacts immediately.
Embryology
Our specialist embryology laboratories are located in Hobart and Launceston. They are all accredited by the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC) and operate seven days a week.
In the embryology laboratories we perform a full range of treatment services including:
- In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
- Embryo culture and assessment
- Embryo cryopreservation
- PGD
- Preparation of surgically collected sperm
Andrology
Semen samples need to be analysed within an hour of production, every clinic has a NATA accredited semen collection and diagnostic andrology laboratory. Advanced treatments such as surgical retrieval (TESA or MESA) and ICSI now give many couples the chance to have a baby where just 20 years ago it would have been impossible.
Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
Our Hobart laboratory also performs endocrinology, cytogenetics and DNA diagnostics. Our world-class genetic testing Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is also carried out here, and if Advanced Embryo Selection (AES) is required the biopsy will be specially transported to Melbourne.
We believe chromosome screening of embryos will provide the next big breakthrough in boosting pregnancy and birth rates for our patients.