How it works
The processed semen sample is placed into a microchannel device.
Male Infertility · Microfluidic Sperm Preparation
Microfluidic Sperm Selection
Microfluidic sperm selection is a laboratory method designed to prepare motile sperm by using their ability to move through microfluidic channels.
- The method is selected only when semen characteristics are suitable
- It may not be appropriate when sperm numbers are very low
- Final sperm selection and the decision to use ICSI are made by the embryologist
Understand the topic in one minute
Microfluidic Sperm Selection: Quick Summary
Selection principle
Motile sperm move through the channels and are collected in a separate chamber.
Use
The selected fraction can be prepared for IVF or ICSI.
Limitation
It does not guarantee a higher live-birth rate and is not suitable for every sample.
Key information
What Is Microfluidic Sperm Selection?
Microfluidic devices are designed to separate sperm cells according to physical movement and flow characteristics.
In brief:
Semen or a pre-prepared sample is introduced into microchannels; motile sperm move through the channels and are collected in the fraction used by the laboratory.
Conventional sperm-preparation methods include density-gradient and swim-up techniques. Some microfluidic methods aim for gentler separation by reducing centrifugation steps.
Although microfluidic selection may be marketed as a way to reduce sperm DNA fragmentation, clinical outcomes are not conclusive across all patient groups. The method should be selected according to test findings and the laboratory protocol.
In samples with very few sperm, testicular sperm or severely reduced motility, a microfluidic device may not yield enough usable cells.
- Sperm concentration and motility are assessed beforehand
- Device validation and the operating protocol are defined by the laboratory
- The selected sperm are reassessed by the embryologist
- The method is not presented as a guarantee of live birth
Treatment options
Microfluidic Sperm Selection vs Conventional Sperm Preparation
The methods use different physical separation principles.
Density Gradient / Swim-Up
A motile sperm fraction is prepared using centrifugation and migration principles.
- Used for many years
- Can be adapted to many different sample types
- May include centrifugation steps
Microfluidic Selection
Sperm are separated by moving through microchannels.
- May aim to reduce centrifugation
- Requires a sufficient number of motile sperm
- Clinical superiority has not been demonstrated for every patient
Which method is better?
No single method is superior for everyone. Starting sperm count, motility, sample volume and the planned treatment method all influence the choice.
Who should be assessed?
Who May Be Suitable for Microfluidic Sperm Selection?
The method is assessed together with standard semen analysis and previous treatment history.
Sufficient motile sperm
There should be enough cells capable of progressing through the microchannels.
Suspected high DNA damage
It may be considered in selected cases after the level of evidence has been explained.
Previous IVF/ICSI failure
It may be discussed as a laboratory option after other possible causes have been assessed.
Recurrent pregnancy loss
It is not a routine solution; comprehensive assessment of the couple is required.
ICSI plan
The selected sperm fraction can be used for microinjection.
Alternative to standard preparation
It may be preferred according to the laboratory protocol and sample characteristics.
Who may not be suitable?
In severe oligozoospermia, very low motility, azoospermia or surgically retrieved sperm samples, it may not be possible to obtain enough usable cells.
Diagnosis and preparation
What Is Assessed Before Microfluidic Sperm Selection?
The decision is based on semen characteristics rather than being made randomly on the day of the procedure.
Current semen analysis
Concentration, motility and volume.
Previous treatments
Fertilisation, embryo development and pregnancy outcomes.
DNA damage testing
Only when there is a clinical indication.
Sample type
Ejaculated, frozen or surgically retrieved sperm.
IVF method
Whether conventional IVF or ICSI is planned.
Alternative preparation
Density-gradient or swim-up options.
Step-by-step process
How Is Microfluidic Sperm Selection Performed?
Steps can vary according to the laboratory device and protocol.
Sample acceptance
Identity, volume and semen characteristics are confirmed.
Initial assessment
Sperm count and motility are reviewed to assess suitability for the microfluidic device.
Loading the device
The specified sample volume is placed into the microfluidic inlet.
Movement through the microchannels
Motile sperm progress through the channels.
Collecting the fraction
Sperm in the outlet chamber are collected.
Quality control
Count, motility and suitability are reassessed.
IVF or ICSI
The prepared fraction is used in the planned procedure.
Documentation
The device lot and sample matching details are recorded.
Timeline
How Long Does Microfluidic Sperm Selection Take?
Sperm preparation is incorporated into the laboratory workflow on the day of IVF or oocyte collection.
Semen sample
Provided or thawed on the day of the procedure.
Initial check
A brief laboratory assessment is performed.
Microfluidic separation
There is a device-specific waiting period.
Final check
The collected fraction is examined.
ICSI
It can be used with the oocytes on the same day.
Report
The method used is added to the laboratory record.
How many days do I need to stay in Cyprus?
This method does not require a separate trip; it is performed within the laboratory workflow on the day of IVF or ICSI.
Factors affecting outcomes
What Affects the Outcome of Microfluidic Sperm Selection?
Laboratory yield and clinical outcome are different concepts.
Starting sperm count
Too few cells can limit the microfluidic output.
Motility
A key parameter for passage through the channels.
Device design
Different microfluidic devices do not use identical principles or deliver identical performance.
Sample processing
Pre-preparation and waiting time can influence the result.
Oocyte quality
Fertilisation and embryo development do not depend on sperm selection alone.
Laboratory experience
Device selection, loading and final fraction assessment are important.
Important distinction:
Obtaining a more motile sperm fraction does not mean that clinical pregnancy or live birth will necessarily increase.
Personalised cost planning
Microfluidic Sperm Selection Costs
Cost varies according to the single-use device and the scope of the IVF laboratory procedure.
Device
Single-use microfluidic cartridge.
Semen analysis
Suitability assessment on the day of the procedure.
Laboratory time
Loading, waiting and fraction assessment.
ICSI
Use of the selected sperm for microinjection.
Alternative method
Conventional preparation if microfluidic selection is not suitable.
Additional tests
DNA fragmentation testing only when indicated.
Find out what your individual plan may include
Send us your semen results so we can assess whether microfluidic sperm selection is actually indicated.
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Quality Control in Microfluidic Sperm Preparation
Correct device use, sample volume and assessment of the final fraction should be managed through a defined laboratory protocol.
Device lot record
The lot number and expiry information of each cartridge are recorded.
Sample volume
Loaded according to manufacturer instructions and laboratory validation.
Time control
Migration and collection times are standardised.
Outlet analysis
The number and motility of collected sperm are assessed.
Back-up method
An alternative preparation method is available if the output is insufficient.
Electronic witnessing
The sample, device and oocyte source are verified.
Multidisciplinary approach
Microfluidic Sperm Selection Laboratory Team
The method is selected by the physician and embryology laboratory according to semen characteristics.
Obstetrics, Gynaecology and IVF Specialist
Op. Dr. Beril Yüksel
The laboratory method is assessed together with the female partner’s IVF plan and oocyte quality.
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Scientific Director
Prof. Dr. Münevver Serdaroğulları
Coordinates the clinical rationale for any additional method and the informed-consent process.
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Embryology Laboratory Director
Zafer Atayurt
Operates the microfluidic device, assesses the final sperm fraction and selects sperm for ICSI.
View profile →Urology and andrology assessment
Microfluidic selection does not replace diagnosis or treatment of underlying male factors such as varicocele, hormonal disorders or azoospermia.
Balanced information
Limitations of Microfluidic Sperm Selection
The level of evidence and samples for which the method may not be suitable should be explained clearly.
Insufficient sperm yield
When count and motility are low, too few usable cells may be recovered.
Uncertainty about clinical superiority
A live-birth advantage has not been demonstrated in all groups.
Differences between devices
Not every microfluidic device produces the same results.
Additional cost
Unnecessary routine use can increase treatment costs.
Incomplete sample collection
Incorrect loading or collection is particularly important when sperm numbers are limited.
Does not treat the underlying cause
The method is only a sperm-preparation step.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Microfluidic Sperm Selection
Use cases and limitations of microfluidic sperm preparation.
What is microfluidic sperm selection?
It is a laboratory method designed to collect motile sperm in a separate fraction by allowing them to migrate through microchannels.
Does microfluidic sperm selection reduce sperm DNA damage?
Some studies have reported fractions with lower DNA damage, but clinical benefit is not certain for every patient.
Does microfluidic sperm selection increase the chance of pregnancy?
An increase in live birth cannot be guaranteed; evidence varies by patient group and device.
Is microfluidic sperm selection used for everyone?
No. It may not be suitable for samples with insufficient sperm count or motility.
Can microfluidic sperm selection be used with ICSI?
A suitable fraction can be used for ICSI.
Can microfluidic sperm selection be used for IUI?
Depending on the device and sample characteristics, it may be used for sperm preparation, but it is not routine.
What is the difference between microfluidic selection and swim-up?
Swim-up relies on sperm swimming into culture medium, whereas microfluidic selection relies on passage through microchannels.
Is a DNA fragmentation test required before microfluidic sperm selection?
No. Testing is performed only when clinically indicated.
Can microfluidic sperm selection be used with surgically retrieved sperm?
It may not be suitable for many surgical samples because sperm numbers and motility can be very low.
Does the embryologist reassess sperm after microfluidic selection?
Yes. The final fraction is checked for sperm count, motility and suitability for ICSI.
Does microfluidic sperm selection involve an additional fee?
There may be an additional cost because of the single-use device and laboratory procedure.
How many days do I need to stay in Cyprus for microfluidic sperm selection?
No separate stay is required; it is performed in the laboratory on the day of IVF or ICSI.