The Preimplantation Diagnostics (PID), also known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), enables the genetic testing of embryos as part of an IVF or ICSI treatment before an embryo is transferred to the uterus.
With preimplantation diagnostics, embryos can be examined for chromosomal changes or specific genetically determined diseases, depending on the indication. The aim is to obtain additional genetic information for the selection of an embryo for transfer.
Genetic testing is usually performed on embryos that have developed to the blastocyst stage (Day 5 or 6) after fertilization.
A few cells are taken from the trophectoderm, the outer cell layer of the blastocyst. This tissue later primarily develops into the placenta. The removed cells are then examined in a specialized genetic laboratory.
Since genetic analysis takes some time, embryos are usually frozen by vitrification after biopsy. Once the genetic result is available, a joint decision can be made as to which embryo is suitable for a later embryo transfer.
PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies) examines embryos for deviations in chromosome number. Embryos with a normal number of chromosomes are referred to as euploid.
Chromosomal changes occur more frequently with increasing maternal age and are an important reason why embryos do not implant or a pregnancy ends prematurely.
PGT-A can identify embryos with an unremarkable chromosomal finding for transfer. This can significantly increase the probability of success per embryo transfer and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
PGT-A can be particularly useful for certain patients with advanced maternal age, recurrent miscarriages, or recurrent implantation failure.
PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders) is used when a known monogenic disease is present in a family. These are diseases caused by a change in a single gene.
As part of an IVF or ICSI treatment, the resulting embryos can be specifically examined for the known familial genetic change. This allows embryos to be identified that are not affected by the genetic disease under investigation.
PGT-M can provide couples with an increased risk of passing on a serious hereditary disease the opportunity to significantly reduce this risk for their future child.
The performance of preimplantation diagnostics in Switzerland is regulated by law and subject to certain conditions. Whether PGT-A or PGT-M is advisable and possible in an individual case is assessed during a detailed fertility medicine and – depending on the indication – genetic consultation.
At the Kopelli Fertility Clinic, we provide individual advice on the possibilities of preimplantation diagnostics and jointly clarify which diagnostic and therapeutic steps are appropriate for your personal situation.
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), internationally usually referred to as PGT, enables the genetic examination of embryos before transfer into the uterus. For this, IVF or ICSI treatment is necessary. A few cells are removed from the embryo and genetically examined. Subsequently, an embryo suitable for transfer can be specifically selected.
Depending on the clinical question, different genetic examinations may be considered. PGT-A examines the number of chromosomes in an embryo and can, for example, detect additional or missing chromosomes. PGT-M is used to screen for specific known monogenic hereditary diseases. PGT-SR is used in cases of structural chromosomal changes in a parent, such as certain translocations.
PGT may be considered particularly if a parent has a known genetic disease or certain chromosomal changes, resulting in an increased risk of a serious illness for the child. However, it may also be considered if the number of unsuccessful transfers or miscarriages is to be reduced. Whether preimplantation genetic testing is medically sensible and permissible in Switzerland is assessed on an individual basis.
First, IVF or ICSI treatment is performed. After the oocyte retrieval, the eggs are fertilized and the resulting embryos are cultured in the laboratory for several days. A few cells are removed from suitable embryos and genetically examined. The embryos are usually frozen until the genetic result is available. A suitable embryo can then be transferred into the uterus in a later cycle.
The biopsy is performed on a highly developed embryo, known as a blastocyst. A few cells are removed from the part that later predominantly develops into the placenta. The procedure is carried out in specialized IVF laboratories. However, a small risk of impairment to the embryo cannot be completely excluded.
No. Preimplantation genetic testing specifically examines certain genetic or chromosomal changes. It cannot provide a guarantee for a healthy child and cannot exclude all genetic diseases or malformations. We will discuss the significance of the respective examination with you in detail before the treatment.
This depends on the individual situation and the type of genetic examination. Through the examination, embryos with certain genetic or chromosomal abnormalities can be identified and excluded from transfer. However, PGT guarantees neither the implantation of an embryo nor a pregnancy or the birth of a healthy child.
Yes, preimplantation genetic testing is permitted in Switzerland under legally defined conditions. Which examinations may be performed depends on the respective medical and genetic question. Therefore, careful individual assessment and counseling take place before PGT.
PGT cannot completely replace later prenatal diagnosis. Depending on the genetic question, further examinations during pregnancy may be recommended. Which examinations are sensible will be discussed with you individually.
Treatment with PGT usually takes longer than IVF or ICSI treatment without genetic testing. After hormonal stimulation, oocyte retrieval, and fertilization, suitable embryos are biopsied and usually frozen. Once the genetic results are available, the transfer of a suitable embryo can be planned in a later cycle.
The costs of IVF or ICSI treatment and the associated preimplantation genetic testing are generally not covered by compulsory health insurance in Switzerland. Depending on the individual situation, however, individual diagnostic investigations may be covered by basic insurance. We will inform you transparently about the expected costs before the start of treatment.
Since preimplantation genetic testing requires IVF or ICSI treatment and a specialized IVF laboratory, this treatment takes place at our location in Pfäffikon SZ. The necessary steps as well as the genetic examination are carefully coordinated and discussed with you in detail in advance.