Treatment Overview
Multilayer Embryo Screening is a comprehensive approach to embryo assessment during an IVF cycle that goes beyond a single test. It combines multiple layers of screening—morphological assessment, developmental kinetics (time-lapse monitoring), chromosomal analysis (PGT-A), single-gene mutation testing (PGT-M), structural rearrangement screening (PGT-SR), and sometimes even extended genomic/biomarker profiling—into one integrated workflow.
In Korea, leading fertility centres implement multilayer screening to provide more nuanced selection of embryos—ensuring that each embryo transferred is not only chromosomally normal but also shows optimal developmental timing and morphology. Korean labs leverage advanced technologies like next-generation sequencing (NGS), artificial intelligence (AI) for embryo ranking, and high-fidelity embryo culture systems to support this multilayer strategy.
This multilayer protocol aims to maximize implantation potential, reduce miscarriage risk, and improve overall live-birth outcomes by layering many screening modalities rather than relying on one dimension of testing.
Purpose & Benefits
The purpose of multilayer embryo screening is to provide the highest possible assurance of embryo quality by combining complementary screening modalities.
Benefits include:
- Optimised embryo selection by integrating morphological, kinetic and genetic data.
- Improved success rates: Higher implantation and live-birth rates by transferring embryos that meet multiple quality criteria.
- Reduced miscarriage risk by screening not only for aneuploidy but also for single-gene mutations and structural chromosomal errors.
- Better use of limited embryos: When embryo numbers are few, the strongest embryo can be chosen based on multiple screening layers.
- Support for single embryo transfer (SET): With greater confidence in embryo viability, clinicians can recommend SET with high success.
- Comprehensive risk reduction: For older patients, patients with recurrent miscarriage, or genetic carriers, it provides a layered safety net.
- Tailored to patient needs: The specific layers of screening can be customized (for example, adding PGT-M if family history exists) in the Korean context.
By combining multiple screening layers, Korean fertility clinics elevate embryo assessment from “just good morphology” to “morphology + kinetics + genetics + structural integrity.”
Ideal Candidates
Multilayer embryo screening is especially suitable for:
- Women aged 35 + where chromosomal errors are more likely.
- Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage or previous IVF failure.
- Patients with known single‐gene disorders or carriers of genetic mutations.
- Couples with chromosomal structural rearrangements (translocations/inversions).
- Patients with limited embryo numbers who want maximum selection precision.
- Cancer survivors or individuals undergoing fertility preservation who wish highest embryo screening levels.
- International patients seeking Korea’s advanced screening technologies combined into one program.
Possible Risks & Considerations
While multilayer screening enhances embryo selection, there are certain caveats:
- Embryo biopsy risks: Any time a trophectoderm biopsy is done there is a minimal risk of affecting embryo viability.
- Mosaicism/interpretation complexity: Complex genomic/kinetic profiles may pose challenging interpretation (e.g., mosaic embryos).
- Cost and time: Multiple screening layers increase cost and may require embryos to be frozen while awaiting results.
- No guarantee of success: Even the best-screened embryo may fail to implant due to uterine or other factors.
- Ethical/emotional complexity: With more data comes more decision-making—patients may face difficult choices when embryos fall short of criteria.
- Data-overload risk: Having many parameters (genetics + time-lapse + morphology) may complicate rather than simplify decisions if not managed properly.
Korean clinics address these risks via high-level embryology labs, genetic counselling, clear patient education, and integrated workflows.
Techniques & Laboratory Methods
Here are the key methods used in multilayer embryo screening in Korea:
- Morphological assessment + time-lapse monitoring: Embryos are cultured in time-lapse incubators to record kinetic development; AI algorithms analyze trajectories and morphological features to rank embryos.
- Blastocyst-stage trophectoderm biopsy: On day 5–6, embryos are biopsied for genetic analysis while preserving inner cell mass.
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): Genetic screening (PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR) performed on biopsied cells, providing high resolution across chromosomes and genes.
- Structural rearrangement screening: Detects chromosomal translocations or inversions using high-resolution genomic platforms.
- Bioinformatic embryo ranking: Data from morphology, kinetics and genomics are integrated into embryo ranking systems to select the best candidate.
- Vitrification & cryopreservation: Embryos are frozen while awaiting results, then transferred when optimal.
- Quality assurance and storage management: High standards in Korean labs ensure sample tracking, secure storage, and minimal damage during processing.
These multilayer protocols reflect best-practice fertility medicine, as adopted by top Korean centres, blending embryology, genomics and AI in embryo selection.
Recovery & Aftercare
From a patient perspective, multilayer screening adds minimal additional physical burden beyond a standard IVF cycle:
- After egg retrieval, patients recover as usual (mild discomfort, possible cramping).
- Embryos are biopsied and frozen; patient waits for screening results while uterine preparation can be optimized.
- Genetic counselling and embryo selection meetings inform the couple about results and transfer decision.
- Frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle scheduled once embryo is selected; standard hormonal preparation, monitoring, and follow-up apply.
- Emotional support, counselling and clear communication are important given the increased complexity of data and decisions.
- Long-term follow-up may include post-transfer monitoring and prenatal screening as indicated.
Korean fertility clinics typically offer integrated aftercare including psychological, nutritional and hormonal support.
Results & Longevity
Multilayer screening aims to deliver superior outcomes. Evidence and practice from Korea show:
- Higher implantation/live birth rates when using embryos selected by combined genetics + kinetics/morphology vs morphology alone.
- Reduced miscarriage rates, especially in patients with prior losses or older maternal age.
- Better cumulative live birth per retrieval, because fewer wasted embryos and better selection.
- Longevity of stored embryos is maintained due to high-quality vitrification and storage standards; screened embryos are suitable for long-term cryostorage and later use.
- Enhanced confidence in single‐embryo transfer strategies, reducing multiple pregnancy risks.
While specific national outcome data may be limited, many Korean centres report competitive success rates and strong patient satisfaction.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Consultation & Pre-Screening
- Review patient’s fertility, genetic and embryologic history.
- Decide on multilayer screening plan (which layers: genetics, kinetics, morphology).
Step 2 – Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval
- Standard stimulation protocols tailored to patient.
- Eggs retrieved and fertilised (often via ICSI).
Step 3 – Embryo Culture + Time-Lapse Monitoring
- Embryos cultured in time-lapse incubators to capture kinetic data and morphology.
- AI algorithms analyse development parameters.
Step 4 – Biopsy & Genetic Screening
- On day 5–6 blastocyst stage, trophectoderm biopsy performed.
- Cells sent for NGS (PGT-A, possibly PGT-M, PGT-SR) while embryos vitrified.
Step 5 – Data Integration & Embryo Ranking
- Morphokinetic, morphological and genomic data combined to rank embryos.
- Genetic counselling and decision meeting with couple.
Step 6 – Frozen Embryo Transfer
- Selected embryo thawed and transferred in optimised uterine cycle.
- Monitoring supports implantation and early pregnancy.
Why Korea Excels
- Korea combines cutting-edge embryology labs, genomic sequencing facilities, and AI/automation in embryo assessment.
- Robust regulatory and quality assurance frameworks ensure reliability and safety.
- Many Korean clinics offer international patient services, multilingual consultations and streamlined logistics.
- Competitive cost-to-feature ratio compared to many Western countries.
- High procedural volumes and strong outcomes support Korean leadership in advanced IVF screening methods.
Cost Range
The cost of a multilayer embryo screening program in Korea will vary depending on how many layers of screening are included, number of embryos, and clinic. Approximate ranges:
- Genetic screening (PGT-A/PGT-M/PGT-SR): USD 4,000 – 8,000 depending on scope.
- Time-lapse monitoring + AI embryo ranking: May add USD 1,000 – 2,000.
- Standard IVF cycle + retrieval + embryo culture: USD 6,000 – 10,000.
- Frozen embryo transfer (FET): USD 2,000 – 4,000.
- Annual cryostorage: USD 300 – 800.
Overall, a full multilayer screening IVF package could range from USD 10,000 to USD 15,000+, depending on clinic and complexity.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- CHA Fertility Center – Seoul Station – Offers comprehensive PGT programs including multilayer screening (PGT-A, PGT-M, PGT-SR, AI embryo ranking).
- Hamchoon Women’s Clinic – Known for genetic testing and infertility services, with dedicated embryo genetics labs.
- MizMedi Women’s Hospital – Large ART centre offering advanced embryo culture, cryostorage and genomic screening services.
- Maria Fertility Hospital – Offers both domestic & international patient services, with emphasis on embryo culture and genetic screening.
- Seoul National University Fertility Center – Academic-clinical centre integrating research and practice in embryo genomics and IVF.
