The use of this method allows the selection of high-quality sperm for artificial fertilization based on their movement through a thin membrane with channels, mimicking the natural movement of sperm through the female reproductive tract. The advantage of microfluidic separation chips is that centrifugation is not required for sperm processing, which minimizes mechanical damage to the sperm and their DNA. Motile, viable sperm travel through the channels into the collection well of the chip and are then used for artificial fertilization.
Single-use separation chips are especially recommended in cases of poor oocyte fertilization, poor embryo development in previous IVF cycles, or after recurrent miscarriages. The method cannot be used if the ejaculate volume is insufficient or if there is a reduced number of progressively motile sperm in the ejaculate.