MICHSS 

Microfluidic chip-based sperm selection 

Microfluidic chip-based sperm selection or MICHSS is one of the most widely used methods of sperm selection. MICHSS non-invasively selects the best sperm based on density and motility, thus increasing the success rate of fertility treatment.

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What is MICHSS?

A gentle procedure that reduces handling time in the selection of best-quality sperm.


MICHSS simulates the journey of sperm through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Conventional methods of sperm selection typically use centrifugation and subsequent tracking of sperm motility. MICHSS, in contrast, reduces sample handling time from approximately 2 hours to just 30 minutes. Sperm are therefore exposed to the external environment for a much shorter time and the risk of DNA fragmentation and mechanical damage is substantially reduced.

The entire process involves only one step, during which sperm are monitored for their ability to travel through the chip mechanism into the central stream of the device. MICHSS is essentially a more modern and efficient variant of the previously widespread magnetically activated selection procedure magnetic activated cell sorting — MACS.

Zymot mikrofluidní čip MICHSS

MICHSS — sperm selection using microfluidic chip I PFC

Main benefits of MICHSS

  • Sperm selection using the microfluidic chip method allows us to analyse a wide range of ejaculate samples, including — viscous, small quantity, low density and motile sperm.
  • Due to the reduced risk of DNA fragmentation and damage, MICHSS plays a pivotal role in selecting the best quality sperm for both intrauterine insemination (IUI) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) fertilisation. Studies show that sperm DNA fragmentation leads to a lower probability of proper embryo division and consequently lower implantation success. MICHSS, therefore, is one of the sperm selection methods that reduces the risk of failure in assisted reproduction as we can significantly reduce the percentage of sperm with fragmented DNA.

Sperm selection using MICHSS microfluidic chip technology maximises the efficiency of daily laboratory work during sample analysis. It is our first choice for men with sperm in the ejaculate. In PFC laboratories, we use the most modern separation microfluidic chip-based device ZyMot. In cases of azoospermia, or is the complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, we then explore specialised methods of surgical sperm retrieval through MESA/TESE (microsurgical sperm retrieval) and possibly selection by LAISS (laser assisted selection of non-motile sperm).

Our andrology specialists can explain how we proceed with the examination and treatment of male factor infertility to find the best method for each individual.

You can learn more about our comprehensive approach to fertility treatment on both the male and female side directly from your IVF coordinator.