Coordinated by Jean Popwell, Ph.D., HCLD/CC(ABB),
Pacific Fertility Center, San Francisco, California
Assisted by Michael Abeyta, TS(ABB) and Jennifer Andres, ELD/TS(ABB)

Workshop supported by:

Origio, A CooperSurgical Company

Embryotech Laboratories

Natera

Levent Keskintepe, Ph.D., HCLD/CC(ABB)
Sher Institute for Reproductive Medicine
Las Vegas, Nevada

Course Aims

This day-long workshop will provide embryologists with a comprehensive and hands-on knowledge of trophectoderm biopsy for CCS/PGS/PGD. Over the course of the workshop, each participant will have the opportunity to engage in an overview discussion, demonstration of trophectoderm biopsy techniques by experienced embryologists in the field, as well as gain valuable hands-on experience with Day-5 trophectoderm biopsy techniques, and trophectoderm preparation for analysis (sample pickup and tubing).

Additionally this course will create an environment in which all embryologists can share their ideas, tips, tricks and experiences related to Day-5 embryo culture and CCS/PGS/PGD.

General Information

Four separate laser equipped-inverted microscope workstations will allow attendees ample opportunity to practice trophectoderm biopsy. Participants will be grouped and trained based on their initial experience and confidence with embryo biopsy and manipulation skills to make each training session productive for the group.

Each participant will receive biopsy training in small groups of no more than six individuals per trainer, and then receive individual training in the various requirements of sample pickup and tubing required by genetic laboratories performing the analysis.

All 24 participants will be divided into 4 groups based on their own experience with biopsy techniques:

Beginner:

An embryologist that has experience with an inverted scope for other micromanipulation procedures (ICSI, AH, AC), but has not performed a Day 3 or Day 5 biopsy procedure.

Group A and B: Two dedicated inverted scopes for beginner trainees to allow for more time with the trainer.

Intermediate:

An embryologist that has Day 3 Biopsy experience, but has not performed Trophectoderm Biopsy. This individual knows the initial steps for embryo biopsy, but wants to learn how to successfully manipulate a blastocyst embryo for biopsy.

Group C: One dedicated inverted scope for intermediate trainees.

Advanced:

An embryologist that has experience with trophectoderm biopsy or is currently training in their own lab with trophectoderm biopsy, but wants to improve their biopsy skill set and pick up tips and tricks to refine their overall biopsy technique.

Group D: One dedicated inverted scope for advanced trainees.

Choose from one of two sessions. SPACE IS LIMITED! The number of participants is limited to 24 trainees per day. Register early to secure your place for this exciting hands-on workshop.

Register for the workshop and symposium and SAVE $40 off the workshop price!