Effect of embryo selection based morphokinetics on IVF/ICSI outcomes: evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Purpose: Debate exists for the optimal tool to select embryos for transfer in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Time-lapse monitoring (TLM) is a noninvasive tool suggested where each embryo can be captured every 5-20 min. Given the inconsistency in the existing studies, we conducted this meta-analysis of RCTs to summarize the evidence available concerning the predictive ability of morphokinetics compared with the routine assessment of embryo development in ART.

Methods: The primary databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, NHS, WHO, and Other Non-Indexed Citations were consulted for RCTs that have been published until November 2018, with no language restriction.

Results and conclusion: Our review includes 6 RCTs (n = 2057 patients). The data showed an improvement (~ 9%) in live birth TLM (OR 1.43; 95% CI 1.10-1.85; P = 0.007), with low-quality evidence. There was no evidence of a significant difference between both groups concerning ongoing pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and implantation rates. The data further showed that morphokinetics is associated with decreased early pregnancy loss rate. These estimates must be interpreted with caution owing to the statistical and clinical heterogeneities and the consequent difficulty in drawing any meaningful conclusion.

Keywords: Embryo assessment; Morphokinetics; Time-lapse monitoring.