State-of-the-Art Embryology Labs

HRC Fertility’s IVF labs — where eggs, sperm and embryos are handled and IVF is performed — is an extremely important part of the IVF process. Our three state-of the-art embryology labs in Pasadena, Newport Beach and Encino are at the forefront of reproductive clinical research. In 1989, just one year after HRC opened, our lab performed one of the first preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) cases in the United States for a sex linked genetic disorder.

THE IVF LABORATORY

Where the Magic Happens

HRC  Fertility currently has three state-of-the-art embryology laboratories located in Pasadena, Encino, and Newport Beach. The goal of each laboratory is to produce the best possible embryo that will achieve a successful pregnancy.  In order to achieve this, we create the most stress-free environment possible that mimics physiological conditions that enable the embryo to grow. By using low oxygen incubators and a continuous culture medium, we can extend the life of an embryo in vitro for up to seven days.  This may allow the patient to have more blastocysts to choose from. When we test these blastocysts with PGT-A, we can achieve higher implantation rates for the patient when euploid (normal) embryos are transferred.

HRC can safely vitrify blastocysts and recover virtually all of them post thaw.  This allows us to freeze the embryos produced in a fresh cycle and transfer them in subsequent “more natural” (physiological) frozen embryo transfer cycles (FET).

HRC has historically been at the forefront of technological advances. In 1989, we established one of the first preimplantation genetics testing programs for the sex linked gender disorders.  In addition, we were one of the first clinics to offer micromanipulation for the treatment of male factor infertility. HRC is still active in research and routinely presents at infertility conferences such as the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Pacific Coast Reproductive Society (PCRS).

The factor that sets us apart in the industry is our remarkable laboratory personnel. We have highly trained and sought after, dedicated embryologists who are devoted to obtaining the best possible results for our patients.

IN-HOUSE PGT-A LAB

Nexgenomics

NexGenomics is HRC Fertility’s in-house clinical laboratory specializing in preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). Chromosome aneuploidy, or an abnormal number of chromosomes, is one of the main causes of IVF failures and chromosome disorders (e.g. Down Syndrome).

PGT-A is performed on a few cells biopsied from the blastocyst, to identify chromosomally normal embryos for transfer. PGT-A significantly increases the success rate of an IVF cycle, by reducing implantation failure, early miscarriage, and birth of babies with chromosome disorders.

We use hi-resolution Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), currently the most sensitive and reliable platform for PGT-A. Our PGT-A system offers the best detection of aneuploidy, segmental aneuploidy, unbalanced chromosome rearrangements and mosaicism.

Professionals

Diplomas and Сertificates of our Doctors

Pasadena Embryology Team

Tih Tan, MS, ELD
Embryologist / Lab Director Pasadena

Tih is a board certified Embryo Laboratory Director (ABB) with a Masters of Science degree from Washington State University (cum laude). He began his career in reproductive medicine in 1985 s one of the original founding members of HRC in 1988. He has extensive experience in all aspects of embryology and was one of the first embryologists to perform micromanipulation.

Newport Beach Embryology Team

Charlotte Khoury, MS, TS
Senior Embryologist / Scientific Director Orange County

Charlotte is a board certified Technical supervisor (AAB) with a Masters of Science degree from California State Polytechnic University. She had established the Orange County HRC Fertility laboratory in year 2000. She has extensive experience in all aspects of embryology and was one of the first embryologists to perform micromanipulation and vitrification. She is a member of the American Society or Reproductive medicine as well as the Society of Reproductive Biologist Technologists.

Encino Embryology Team

Eric Urcia, MS, TS
Scientific Director Encino

Eric received his BS in Biology from James Madison University and his Master’s in Biomedical Science from Barry University. He has over 22 years of experience as a clinical embryologist, working with several world-class IVF Centers, including Weill Cornell’s Center for Reproductive Medicine in New York City where he began his career training with pioneers in the field of IVF and reproductive technology.

To schedule a consultation with one of our Reproductive Specialists call  866-HRC-4IVF or click below: