IVF COLD CHAIN SHIPPING
Many couples undergo In Vitro Fertilization or IVF treatments for a number of reasons. Whether a couple has frozen embryos or are using sperm or egg donors or donated embryos, a myriad of reasons to transport frozen embryos can arise. IVF.com discusses some statistics involved in frozen embryo use, “The first pregnancy from a frozen/thawed human embryo was reported in 1983, and a birth from this source occurred the following year. Of 99,629 cases of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)* in the United States in 2000, about 16% of cases (16,194) used frozen/thawed embryos. In 2000, live birth rates per thaw cycle were 18.3% versus 26.6% from fresh embryo transfer. At GRS, the ongoing pregnancy rate for IVF using frozen/thawed embryos is currently 52%.” Often, frozen embryos are stored in a bank for any length of time and are then transported when they are ready to be used. Sometimes, couples store embryos in a bank in one state and then move to another state or country. If they then would like to use those embryos, the frozen embryos may need to be transported a great distance. When transported over long distances or, perhaps to another country, the frozen embryos may encounter significant changes in temperature and humidity. Just think, if frozen embryos are stored on the East Coast and are then shipped to the West Coast in the Spring, they could encounter temperature changes of 30-50 degrees depending on the day. Because of this, it is incredibly important that precautions be taken when shipping frozen embryos to ensure the cold chain is maintained at all times.
Benefits of Micro Q Technologies
- Active precision heating or cooling
- Temperature LCD display resolution = 0.1° C
- Temperature control range 0° C to 42° C
- Rechargeable battery with integrated power supply
- Ambient Temperature range -20° C to 50° C
- Temperature holding duration 24+ hours to 168+ hours
- Microprocessor controlled heat pump
- Tamper resistant key switch
- Temperature control resolution = 0.0625° C
Additional IVF Cold Chain Shipping Benefits
Damage to embryos due to temperature excursions could render the frozen embryos unusable, which would not only be devastating to the couple waiting for the embryo but also a very costly mistake. An accurate and reliable refrigerated incubator should be used to ensure that frozen embryos arrive in ideal condition for use. The MicroQ iQ refrigerated incubator is temperature sensitive and capable of active heating and cooling. It can adapt should it experience any fluctuations in ambient conditions, ensuring the cold chain is maintained throughout transport. It is controlled by a microprocessor, ensuring that the desired temperature is accurately and continually maintained. Additionally, the MicroQ iQ refrigerated incubator is lightweight and durable. It will help keep shipping costs down because it is lightweight and it’s durability will protect it against any rough handling during transport. It is also the “green” choice because it is completely reusable. The device simply needs to be recharged, reprogrammed and sent along again. There is no need for disposable shipping containers as the MicroQ iQ refrigerated incubator can be used for all your temperature sensitive shipping needs. With the creation of life at stake, it is incredibly important to ensure that frozen embryos are protected at all times. Maintenance of the cold chain throughout transport will ensure frozen embryo integrity. The MicroQ iQ refrigerated incubator will protect frozen embryos during shipping and ensure they arrive in ideal condition for use.
