ICSI Treatment in Chennai
Precision sperm selection under high magnification for optimal fertilisation in challenging male factor cases
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a specialised fertilisation technique where a single carefully selected sperm is injected directly into a mature egg. It is the treatment of choice when sperm count, motility, or morphology are significantly impaired — or when sperm must be surgically retrieved. At our Chennai centre, Dr. Rukkayal personally performs sperm selection under high-power magnification, applying her direct lab training to identify the healthiest sperm for each egg.
ICSI has transformed outcomes for couples where male factor infertility was once considered untreatable. Whether sperm are obtained from ejaculate, TESA, or micro-TESE, Dr. Rukkayal evaluates motility patterns, morphology, and vitality before selecting the optimal sperm for injection. Her hands-on involvement at this critical step — rather than delegating entirely to a technician — means clinical context informs every laboratory decision. This integrated approach is particularly valuable in cases of high sperm DNA fragmentation, previous IVF fertilisation failure, or very low surgical sperm yields where every retrieved sperm matters. Couples receive a clear explanation of why ICSI is recommended over standard IVF, what the fertilisation expectations are, and how embryo development will be tracked through to transfer.
75-85%
ICSI Fertilisation Rate
50-60%
Clinical Pregnancy Rate
1500+
Male Factor Cases Treated
When Is ICSI Recommended?
You should see a specialist if you experience:
- Very low sperm count or poor sperm motility
- Previous IVF cycle with poor or failed fertilisation
- Sperm retrieved surgically through TESA or Micro TESE
- High levels of anti-sperm antibodies
- Unexplained fertilisation failure in a prior cycle
ICSI vs Standard IVF: When Direct Injection Matters
In standard IVF, thousands of sperm are placed around each egg and fertilisation occurs naturally. ICSI bypasses this by injecting one sperm directly into the egg cytoplasm. This is essential when sperm numbers are too low for natural penetration, when sperm cannot move well enough to reach the egg, when previous IVF cycles showed poor or zero fertilisation, or when surgically retrieved sperm are being used. ICSI fertilisation rates typically range from 70 to 85 percent when performed by experienced hands.
Conditions We Treat
ICSI Treatment Options
ICSI with Ejaculated Sperm
The most common scenario — sperm from a fresh or frozen semen sample are assessed under magnification, and the best individual sperm is selected for injection into each mature egg.
ICSI with Surgically Retrieved Sperm
For men with obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia, sperm obtained via TESA or micro-TESE are used for ICSI. Even a small number of viable sperm can achieve fertilisation through direct injection.
ICSI with Frozen Sperm
Previously cryopreserved sperm — whether from a surgical retrieval, a backup sample, or fertility preservation — can be thawed and used for ICSI with excellent fertilisation outcomes.
ICSI for Previous Fertilisation Failure
When standard IVF produced poor or zero fertilisation, ICSI ensures sperm entry into the egg, overcoming barriers related to sperm binding or zona penetration defects.
Why Choose Dr. Rukkayal?
- With her direct involvement, Dr. Rukkayal selects sperm under high-power magnification, applying morphological and motility criteria at the individual cell level.
- Extensive experience with surgically retrieved sperm — TESA and micro-TESE samples where every viable sperm is precious.
- International lab training from Germany ensures world-class micromanipulation technique and equipment standards.
- Seamless coordination between clinical and lab decisions — the same doctor managing your treatment is evaluating your gametes.
- Fertilisation rates consistently above 75 percent, benchmarked against international standards.
Your Treatment Journey
Male Factor Evaluation
Detailed semen analysis including morphology, DNA fragmentation assessment when indicated, and hormonal evaluation. If azoospermia is present, surgical sperm retrieval options are discussed.
Treatment Planning
Dr. Rukkayal explains why ICSI is recommended for your case, outlines the stimulation protocol for the female partner, and coordinates any surgical sperm retrieval timing.
Ovarian Stimulation and Egg Retrieval
The female partner undergoes standard IVF stimulation and egg retrieval. Mature eggs are identified and prepared for the ICSI procedure.
Sperm Selection and Injection
Dr. Rukkayal selects the best sperm under magnification and injects one sperm into each mature egg using a precision micromanipulation system. Fertilisation is assessed 16 to 18 hours later.
Embryo Culture and Grading
Fertilised embryos are cultured for three to five days. Each embryo is graded at key developmental checkpoints, and the highest-quality embryo is selected for transfer.
Embryo Transfer and Follow-Up
The selected embryo is transferred to the uterus under ultrasound guidance. Luteal phase support is provided, and a pregnancy test is scheduled 12 to 14 days later.
Have Questions About Your Treatment?
Speak with Dr. Rukkayal Fathima to understand your options and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Specialties
IVF Treatment
Comprehensive IVF programmes with personalised protocols and direct lab expertise.
Male Fertility
Complete male factor evaluation including advanced semen analysis and hormonal assessment.
TESA / Micro-TESE
Surgical sperm retrieval for men with azoospermia, coordinated with ICSI for fertilisation.