Microfluidic sperm sorting chip usuage as an alternative method in recurrent IVF failure patients

Aim: It is known that sperm preparation techniques in IVF treatments are intended to select the best quality sperm. The aim of this study was to compare the density gradient method and the microfluidic chip method in recurrent IVF failure patients in terms of fertilization and pregnancy rates and also to evaluate these methods according to sperm morphology and sperm DNA fragmentation index. Material and Method: The study included 428 patients with unexplained infertility and recurrent IVF failure patients. Fertilization and pregnancy rates were compared in the the first time IVF trial patients and in the recurrent IVF failure patients according to the methods. Morphology and DNA fragmentation index comparison of sperm samples taken from 30 randomly selected men from the group were evaluated by Toluidine Blue cytochemical staining method. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between fertilization and pregnancy rates when compared with gradient and chip methods in first time IVF tial patients. However in recurrent IVF failure patients there was a significant difference in fertilization rates but there was no statistically significant difference in pregnancy rates. In the study performed in 30 randomly selected patients from the group, the microchip method significantly decreased sperm DNA fragmentation index according to density gradient method. Both methods significantly increased the percentage of sperm with good morphology compared to the control group. There was no difference between the methods in terms of morphology. Conclusion: Microchip method may be recommended in patients with recurrent unsuccessful in vitro trials. The sperm DNA fragmentation test prior to the treatment will be helpful in selecting the appropriate sperm washing method.