Quality control in an in-vitro fertilization laboratory: use of human sperm survival studies

A bioassay procedure is described for quality control testingof various disposable items used in routine IVF procedures.This biosassay is performed over 4 days and uses the survivalof human sperm in vitro at room temperature to assess whichproducts are suitable for use. New products were tested forcytotoxicity using a general screening method and subsequenthatches of every suitable item tested to detect interbatch variation.Products were considered suitable or unsuitable for use dependingupon a calculated sperm survival index. Two main types of productwere found to be cytotoxic, namely certain brands of syringeand surgical gloves, the common feature of both being the presenceof rubber components. The bioassay was also used to investigatefurther the cytotoxic effect of the powdered and starch-freesurgical gloves. The cytotoxic substances from both types ofsurgical glove were readily transferred to an embryo replacementcatheter by touch, and washing of the gloves reduced this effectonly moderately. The bioassay has proved inexpensive and convenientbut more importantly it has been invaluable for detecting potentialsources of cytotoxicity before they are introduced into a standardIVF protocol.