Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT): A Review
Abstract
Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT) is an assisted reproductive technology used to treat infertility in women. It is a type of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) where an egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory setting and then transferred into the fallopian tube of the woman. This procedure is often used when IVF is not successful, or when the woman has blocked or damaged fallopian tubes. This review will provide an overview of ZIFT, including its indications, procedure, advantages, and risks.
Introduction
Infertility is a major medical issue that affects the lives of many couples worldwide. Assisted reproductive technologies such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF) have been developed to treat this condition. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT) is a form of IVF where the zygote (fertilized egg) is placed in the fallopian tube of the woman, as opposed to the uterus, as is done in standard IVF. This procedure is often used when IVF fails or when the woman has blocked or damaged fallopian tubes. This review will provide an overview of ZIFT, including its indications, procedure, advantages, and risks.
Indications
ZIFT is indicated in cases where IVF has failed or in cases of blocked or damaged fallopian tubes. In cases of blocked tubes, ZIFT may improve the chances of pregnancy, as the fertilized egg is placed directly into the fallopian tube, allowing for natural fertilization and implantation. ZIFT is also indicated in cases of advanced maternal age, low sperm count, or poor egg quality.
Procedure
The procedure for ZIFT is similar to that of standard IVF. The egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory setting and the resulting zygote is transferred to the woman’s fallopian tube using a laparoscope. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and the zygote is placed directly into the fallopian tube via the laparoscope.
Advantages
The main advantage of ZIFT is that it allows for the zygote to be placed directly into the fallopian tube, which improves the chances of successful fertilization and implantation. Additionally, ZIFT can be used in cases of blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, which may be difficult to treat with standard IVF.
Risks
As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with ZIFT. These include ectopic pregnancy, infection, and bleeding. Additionally, the procedure may be unsuccessful, resulting in no pregnancy.
Conclusion
Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT) is an assisted reproductive technology used to treat infertility in women. It is a form of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) where the zygote is placed in the fallopian tube of the woman, as opposed to the uterus as is done in standard IVF. This review has provided an overview of ZIFT, including its indications, procedure, advantages, and risks.
References
American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2020). Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT). Retrieved from https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/zygote-intrafallopian-transfer-zift/
Glamour UK. (2020). What is zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)? Retrieved from https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/what-is-zygote-intrafallopian-transfer-zift
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/zygote-intrafallopian-transfer-zift/about/pac-20384991