Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a procedure used to fertilize eggs with sperm. It is often used when there is concern that natural fertilization may not occur if eggs are exposed to sperm as a result of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). ICSI is performed by an embryologist with the aid of a microscope and special tools. In the procedure, a sperm is injected into an egg with a very fine needle controlled by the embryologist looking through the microscope.
Review Date:
7/4/2019
Reviewed By:
John D. Jacobson, MD, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda Center for Fertility, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.