Tissue and sperm handling before assisted reproductive technology (ART): A systematic review

OBJECTIVE: : To explore the medical literature on techniques of tissue and sperm handling after surgical retrieval for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). METHODS: : A search was performed in PubMed and Google Scholar databases, according to a modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline, considering the studies investigating tissue handling and sperm selection techniques for ICSI. RESULTS: : Overall, 42 articles were included in this study, investigating sample handling, methods for sperm selection, and the use of chemical compounds to improve sperm motility and fertilisation rates. CONCLUSION: : The ideal sperm handling method should provide a high sperm count, high vitality and appropriate sperm function, without side-effects. In this review the most common and useful techniques are described and the best combination strategies discussed in clinical scenarios.