Back Module: SLS324

Embryology

Module information

Module details

Title
Embryology
Type
Specialist
Module code
SLS324
Credits
10
Requirement
Compulsory

Aim of this module

This module will provide the trainee with the knowledge and understanding of the development and assessment of human pre-implantation embryos. They will gain experience of grading and assessing embryos and of interpreting the outcomes of assisted reproductive technology.

Work-based content

Competencies

# Learning outcome Competency Action
# 1 Learning outcome 1 Competency

Grade embryos both at the cleavage stage and the blastocyst stage.

 Action View
# 2 Learning outcome 1,3 Competency

Accurately record embryo grading and outcome.

 Action View
# 3 Learning outcome 1,2,3 Competency

Label, identify and witness embryos for use in embryo transfer.

 Action View
# 4 Learning outcome 2 Competency

Use procedures and workstations to maintain embryo viability during embryo transfer.

 Action View
# 5 Learning outcome 1,3 Competency

Dispose of unused embryos.

 Action View
# 6 Learning outcome 1,3 Competency

Make clinical decisions regarding the number of embryos to be transferred.

 Action View
# 7 Learning outcome 1,3 Competency

Communicate number of embryos to be transferred to patients.

 Action View

Assessments

You must complete:

  • 2 case-based discussion(s)
  • 2 of the following DOPS/ OCEs:
Carry out an embryo transfer DOPS
Grade and record embryo quality at different stages of development DOPS
Select embryos for transfer DOPS
Assess clinical presentation and cycle details to recommend the number of embryos to transfer DOPS
Dispose of embryos using appropriate witnessing DOPS
Discuss the number of embryos to be replaced with a patient including the implications and risks to the cycle outcome OCE
Discuss embryo development and quality with a patient and the implications for their treatment cycle OCE
Discuss embryo quality and the implications for cryopreservation with a patient OCE

Learning outcomes

  1. Perform oocyte and embryo morphology assessments.
  2. Perform embryo transfer.
  3. Assess, interpret and report embryology results.

Academic content (MSc in Clinical Science)

Important information

The academic parts of this module will be detailed and communicated to you by your university. Please contact them if you have questions regarding this module and its assessments. The module titles in your MSc may not be exactly identical to the work-based modules shown in the e-portfolio. Your modules will be aligned, however, to ensure that your academic and work-based learning are complimentary.

Learning outcomes

  1. Explain the cellular and molecular development of the human pre- implantation embryo.
  2. Describe relevant techniques for oocyte and embryo morphological assessments.
  3. Describe and evaluate the relevant technique for the process of embryo transfer.
  4. Discuss implantation and endometrial function.

Indicative content

  • Human embryonic development and differentiation at all stages of the pre- implantation embryo
  • Genetic regulation of early embryonic development, including maternal and embryonic gene activity
  • Cellular and molecular aspects of embryo development
  • Chromosomal abnormalities, including meiotic origins and causes of monosomy and trisomy
  • Process of implantation and endometrial function
  • Grading methodologies from oocyte to blastocyst stage, assessment at all preimplantation stages
  • Identification of damaged, non-viable or abnormal gametes, zygotes or embryos
  • Assessment of gametes and embryos for intended use and implications for direct patient treatment
  • Handling and manipulation of embryos, including preparation of embryos and process of embryo transfer
  • Reporting outcomes of ART procedures

Clinical experiences

Important information

Clinical experiential learning is the range of activities trainees may undertake in order to gain the experience and evidence to demonstrate their achievement of module competencies and assessments. The list is not definitive or mandatory, but training officers should ensure, as best training practice, that trainees gain as many of these clinical experiences as possible. They should be included in training plans, and once undertaken they should support the completion of module assessments and competencies within the e-portfolio.

Activities

  • Identify a case involving a difficult embryo transfer, consider the options available and review and discuss with your supervisor. Consider the implications for the patient and how the results of your discussion will inform your future practice.
  • Attend a medical follow-up consultation to gain experience of cycle analysis, consider possible options and discuss future decisions for patient treatment. Reflect on the implications for patient experience/outcome and the impact on your own future practice.
  • Review the embryology detail of at least one patient treatment, evaluate the cycle and prepare a report that could be entered into a patient’s clinical notes. Review and discuss with your supervisor.
  • Prepare a portfolio of significant clinical cases where you have been involved in performing laboratory investigations and/or reporting. Discuss and review the clinical outcome and main learning points for each case.
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