About Genetic Testing
At The IVF CenterSM, we use genetic testing as one of our tools to provide the most advanced reproductive healthcare available.
We are proud to offer the latest and most unique reproductive technologies, including pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and chromosomal analysis (FISH).
Genetic testing involves examining your DNA, the chemical database that carries instructions for your body’s functions. Genetic testing can reveal changes or alterations in your genes that may cause illness or disease.
About the Procedure
This procedure is used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) by performing an embryo biopsy usually of a single blastomere cell at the 6 to 8 cell stage of development. PGD combines the expertise of assisted reproduction and molecular genetics.
Today, the number of genetic diseases detectable by PGD has increased significantly to include most common autosomal dominant and recessive diseases (e.g. cystic fibrosis, thalassemias, sickle cell anemia, and Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy) as well as the diagnosis of chromosomal translocations for patients with recurrent pregnancy loss.
Dr. Trolice and the staff are amazing and the level of care is outstanding, they really take their time to get to know you and follow every step of the process. They help me complete my amazing family. I recommend them to everyone!”
– Jihan, Facebook
Candidates for the Procedure
Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis is offered to couples at risk of having a genetically abnormal child and as an alternative to prenatal diagnosis. Although PGD has been available since 1990, there has been a slow but steady increase in the number of programs (now exceeding 40 worldwide) offering this highly advanced and valuable reproductive medical technology.
Results from the Procedure
Additionally, chromosomal analysis during the preimplantation stage by using Fluorescent In-situ Hybridization (FISH) has the potential to reduce the number of trisomic and monosomic pregnancies (e.g. Down’s syndrome), increase the pregnancy rates in women over age 40, and reduce embryo loss during pregnancy.
In a recent review of PGD around the world, the most common reasons for referral for the procedure was a suspected gene for cystic fibrosis, Duchenne’s or Becker’s muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy, hemophilia, or Huntington’s disease. In these cases, most patients had affected children and decided to pursue PGD prior to attempting another pregnancy. Out of 70 cases, only a single (1.4%) misreported diagnosis occurred that was diagnosed by amniocentesis.
We are honored to be able to offer these advanced reproductive technologies that offer so much hope to our patients.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits
Wide Spectrum of Detection
PGD can be used to detect certain risk factors related to genetic issues such as hemophilia, fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, sickle cell anemia and chromosomal abnormalities.
Earlier Detection
With PGD, we can increase your chance of conceiving a healthy child by identifying genetic problems before the embryo is transferred back to the uterus.
Risks
Chance of Embryo Destruction
About 20 percent of the time, the biopsy process required for PGD can result in an embryo being damaged. If an embryo is damaged by a PGD biopsy, it will usually not continue to grow and will not proceed to the next phase in growth. It will also not result in a viable pregnancy.
Possibility of Undetected Disease
There is no test available that can provide 100 percent accuracy, including PGD. There are still instances of missed genetic traits, even with the accuracy of newer genetic testing technology.
Why The IVF CenterSM Is Unique
At The IVF CenterSM we recognize the process of IVF can at times be overwhelming.
To address this issue, we have an IVF Nurse available 24/7 to answer questions, guide you through the process, and provide emotional support. We also offer a Reproductive Health Psychologist to help couples develop their best coping strategies along their journey.
Success of the IVF Program at The IVF CenterSM is due to our scientific and technological excellence coupled with our compassionate and highly personalized approach to patient care.
The IVF CenterSM is committed to each couple’s success by providing individualized and supportive care along the way. We consider each couple part of our family as we attempt to help them create their own.
