The embryology laboratory is where the collection and fertilization of the oocytes takes place and where the embryos remain under culture conditions until the day of embryo transfer. It is a place of high specialization and sterility, with advanced equipment, that under the guidance of an experienced and well-trained embryologist have a crucial effect on the pregnancy rates of a Unit.
The ideal embryology laboratory, as the one in Eugonia Unit, is characterized by:
- Medical Staff. Highly trained embryologists, that are up to date with the latest scientific advances in the field of assisted reproduction.
Meet our embryologists:
Embryologists
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Marianna Xenariou MSc
Clinical Embryologist
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Irini Spiratou MSc
Clinical Embryologist
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Rodopi Papachristopoulou
Biologist Embryologist
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- Laboratory and equipment. The design of the embryology laboratory is based on the philosophy of a “Clean Room”, regarding the materials, the surfaces and the equipment. Thus, the VOCs (Volatile organic compounds) are reduced to a minimum. Cleanliness of the environment is achieved with the use of special filters and air-exchange systems.
The equipment of our laboratory is state if the art, ensuring precise and effective handling and optimal culture conditions for the embryos. The embryology lab is, among others, equipped with the Integra 3 Micromanipulator System and the Octax system, which enables the 24/7 monitoring of all the critical parameters of the laboratory (temperature and pH within the incubators, temperature of embryo storage tanks and storage fridges, CO2 and N2 canister levels etc).
These new systems represent an important investment by the Unit for the improvement of the quality and safety of our services, through the improvement of all important laboratory parameters, upon which hinges the successful outcome of an IVF attempt.
- Quality assurance. The embryos and gametes are handled with care, taking into account each patient’ s circumstances. Our laboratory follows clear and detailed protocols for every procedure, including strict double-witnessing of every sample and every clinical process, in order to ensure the upmost safety and transparency towards our patients. Finally, our embryologists maintain a database with detailed clinical information.
- Research work that leads to publications in internationally renowned scientific journals. Through research and continuous awareness, we can offer valid and effective treatment, with high success rates. This philosophy has been recognized internationally by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), which has elected our chief embryologist, Ioannis Sfontouris, as coordinator of the Special Interest Group for Embryology.
- External quality control and ISO accreditation from an official government authority
All the above characterise the embryology laboratory at Eugonia and reflect the high pregnancy rates in our Unit.
