The role of cryopreservation

Details

Title

The role of cryopreservation

Type

Stage One

Module code

HLS316

Requirement

Compulsory

Module objective

By the end of the training period trainees will, in respect to the role of cryopreservation, be able to prioritise tasks and work independently and be able to:

• analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply knowledge
• perform, adapt and master a range of technical and clinical skills and procedures
• demonstrate the attitudes and behaviours necessary for professional practice as a consultant clinical scientist dealing with the complexities, uncertainties and tensions of professional practice at this level.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of the training period the trainee will be able to demonstrate the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise relevant knowledge and its application to their professional practice in relation to:

• an in-depth knowledge of the principles of cryobiology, including the physical and chemical processes occurring during cryopreservation and thawing and the use of cryoprotectants
• an in-depth knowledge of the physiological changes that occur in gametes during cryopreservation and warming
• handling of liquid nitrogen and the appropriate health and safety regulations
• the methodology of cryopreservation of gametes, tissue and embryos
• auditing of cryopreservation banks
• regulation relating to cryopreservation including a comprehensive knowledge of the regulatory requirements with regard to screening, storage limits ,consents and transport between centres
• knowledge of how cryoprotectants may affect the quality of gametes and embryos and how osmotic shock may occur
• implications of cryopreservation on embryo quality and relation to treatment outcome.

Technical and clinical skills

By the end of the training period the trainee will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of current relevant research, theory and knowledge and its application to the performance of the following technical procedures and laboratory skills:

• practical techniques to safely cryopreserve and thaw cells and tissue for infertility treatment;
• safely manage and maintain a cryobank in accordance with legislation and
• safely transport gametes and embryos.

By the end of the training period the trainee will be able to apply knowledge of the role of cryopreservation to perform the clinical skills necessary to manage under supervision:

• to liaise and provide evidence-based advice with respect to optimal maintenance and use of cryopreserved tissue, gametes and embryos, and prepare accurate, clear and concise documentation for the purpose of cryopreservation, storage and transport.