Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is an advanced diagnostic test that can be utilized during the in vitro fertilization process to screen embryos for a variety of genetic and chromosomal disorders that can cause implantation failure, miscarriage and birth defects. PGT is done prior to the transfer of the embryos into the uterus during an IVF cycle. Inside our IVF lab, our skilled embryologists remove approximately five cells from each embryo to be tested at the blastocyst stage. The cells are then analyzed for the presence of genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities. The genetically normal embryos may then be transferred into the uterine cavity during a frozen embryo transfer cycle, typically one normal embryo at a time. Any excess normal embryos can remain vitrified (frozen) fur use in the future.
PGT is typically utilized by couples who:
- Have recurrent pregnancy loss due to genetic abnormalities
- Are known carriers of single-gene defects
- Are known carriers of sex-linked chromosomal abnormalities
- Have a family history of genetic disorders
- Have recurrent failed IVF cycles
- Have advanced maternal age (35 years and older)
- Have unexplained infertility
- Desire sex selection of embryos typically for family balancing
There are several categories of preimplantation genetic testing:
PGT-A stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy. This test counts the number of chromosomes to ensure that all 46 chromosomes are completely present. PGT-A also identifies gender.
PGT-SR stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements. This test is intended for patients that have a karyotype indicating an inversion or a translocation in their chromosomes.
PGT-M stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders. This is for patients who are at risk of passing known inherited genetic disorders to their offspring. Patients utilizing PGT-M will need to have a mutation report to build the probes for their specific test.
PGT is generally considered an elective procedure. Most, but not all, insurance companies do not cover the cost of testing so at Davies Fertility and IVF Specialists, we have team members dedicated to helping you understand the PGT-A, PGT-M and PGT-SR billing process. While PGT can be beneficial in identifying normal embryos for transfer, there are minimal risks associated with this procedure that will be discussed with you by Dr. Davies and her team. Not all disorders can be detected with PGT. Once a patient becomes pregnant, chorionic villi sampling (CVS) and/or amniocentesis testing may be required to further rule out chromosomal abnormalities.
We’ve partnered with Igennomix to offer our patients materials, information and resources to help educate about preimplantation genetic testing. Click their logo above to learn more.
For more information about preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), please call our office at 847-972-0043 or message us here.