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Institute Scientists Seek Participants for Ground-Breaking Livingston, N.J -- As the Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) team develops new egg-freezing techniques, aimed to help preserve the fertility of young cancer patients, they are seeking two groups of patient to further this ground-breaking research. "The initial results of our cryopreservation techniques are very promising," says John Garrisi, Ph.D., the IRMS Laboratory Director. "The newly developed process will contribute immeasurably to the peace of mind of young cancer patients and enhance their ability to lead fulfilling lives after treatment." First, the program is seeking cancer patients at risk of losing their fertility through medical treatments. These female patients can now help preserve their childbearing options by participating in the egg-freezing study. The Institute is seeking women ages 18 to 40 who are undergoing or about to undergo chemotherapy, radiation or surgical removal of the ovaries, to have their eggs retrieved before treatment and stored indefinitely for possible future fertilization. Also integral to the study are those infertile patients who agree to have their eggs frozen, thawed and then transferred to confirm that the new freezing techniques developed by IRMS are successful. For their participation, these individuals receive free in vitro fertilization, a substantial saving for those who could not otherwise afford the treatment. Many cancer treatments have a damaging effect on fertility, and this includes chemotherapy and radiation. While previous attempts at cryopreservation have met with sporadic and disappointing results, the embryologists at IRMS are using a new cryopreservation solution developed by Jacques Cohen, Ph.D., Scientific Director of Assisted Reproduction at the Institute. The solution minimizes ice formation in the eggs during freezing, resulting in less damage during the thawing process. Initial results have shown a high rate of survival of thawed eggs and pregnancy after embryo transfer, reports Dr. Garrisi. For More Information PGD fees are in addition to the cost of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, the latter two of which may be covered by individual insurance through the New Jersey Family Building Act. For further information, please contact IRMS at (973) 322-8286, or visit the website at www.sbivf.com. Dr Chen, and her partners, Dr Natalie Cekleniak and Dr Margaret Garrisi, answer questions about miscarriage, conception and infertility on the IRMS message board, which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. [ top ] |
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