Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is a technique that can be used during in vitro fertilization to test embryos for a variety of genetic 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 embryologist removes a single cell from the embryo. The cell is then analyzed for the presence of genetic disorders or abnormalities. The genetically normal embryos may then be transferred into the uterine cavity.
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)
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 make sure nothing is extra or missing, it also identifies gender.
PGT-SR stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements. This test is for patients that have a karyotype that indicates an inversion, or translocation.
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. These patients would need to have a mutation report in order for us to build the test.
PGT is generally an elective procedure. Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of testing so we have team members dedicated to helping you understand the PGT-A, PGT-M, & PGT-SR billing process. Although PGT can be beneficial in identifying normal embryos for transfer, there are 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.
For more information about preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), please call our office at 847-972-0043 or message us here.
