Evaluating the Role of Laser-Assisted Hatching in IVF: Techniques, Outcomes and Clinical Recommendations

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of laser-assisted hatching (LAH) on the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. As assisted reproductive technologies evolve, innovations like LAH aim to improve embryo implantation and pregnancy rates by facilitating hatching through precise zona pellucida modification. This paper explores various LAH techniques, including sequential zona thinning, laser pulsing and zona drilling and evaluates their effects on implantation, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. A detailed literature review highlights recent findings from global studies, while the research methodology describes a clinical investigation involving 80 IVF cycles, analyzing laser exposure durations across different age groups. Results indicate that a 4.5 μs diode laser exposure significantly improves IVF success rates compared to 2 μs and 8 μs exposures. Age-related trends were observed, with higher failures in older patients. The study concludes with evidence-based recommendations for optimizing LAH protocols. This research contributes to the growing knowledge of fertility treatments and provides practical guidance for clinicians and embryologists seeking to maximize IVF outcomes.