IVF > Reviews > Micromanipulation

A dedicated system for ICSI, PGD and Transgenics

Never before has micromanipulation been so easy thanks to RI's latest innovation - the Integra micromanipulation system. The revolutionary Integra is incorporated entirely within the microscope stage. The stage surface itself is larger, yet the Integra takes up a fraction of lab space compared to other systems. This all-in-one concept reduces vibration and has been ergonomically designed for simple and rapid operation. ?

* Dedicated micromanipulation workstation for ICSI and PGD
* Simple to install - just four screws
* Larger stage surface yet takes up less lab space
* Rapid micropipette setting-up facility
* Built-in Air Syringes
* Reduced vibration
* Unique triple heated stage system
* Mechanical coarse and fine x y z micromanipulators
* X-y stage operated by a single lever - motorised version also available

The Integra micromaniuplation system - available for all inverted microscopes.
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Micromanipulators
Movement of the micropipettes is provided by RI's exceptional TDU500 mechanical micromanipulators, offering the most accurate and precise positioning available. Each micromanipulator offers both fine and coarse xyz control and comes with our latest range of toolholders. The TDU500's are extremely reliable and never require routine servicing.

Toolholders
The new PAR21 single toolholder provides the simplest and quickest system ever for setting up ICSI micropipettes. It allows the user to make very fine adjustments to the angle of the micropipette without the tip ever moving out of focus, ensuring that the micropipette is slightly 'toe-down' during sperm immobilisation and horizontal during injection. This feature reduces the damage caused to the oocyte and therefore increases its chance of survival and hence fertilisation.

For PGD, RI have developed a unique double toolholder which offers independent movement of both micropipettes. ? Syringes
The Integra comes as standard with SAS Air Syringes conveniently located next to the fine control levers of the micromanipulators. These are the only air syringes suitable for air injection of the sperm, eliminating the need for oil. The addition of an equilibration button allows the micropipettes to be instantly equilibrated at any time - a very useful and unique feature. Oil systems are available on request.
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Pipette Home Function
All RI toolholders have a special function to instantly move the micropipette vertically by 16mm. The RI Home Function, consisting of a special objective and spacer, allows the micropipette to be set-up 16mm above the petri-dish and then rapidly lowered to the desired position. This system is extremely quick and simple, and prevents micropipette damage. ? Stage Heating
The Integra can be supplied with three independently controlled heated surfaces. The combination of the warm inserted stage and the heated petri-dish holder provides the most accurate heated system available to maintain the temperature of additional petri-dishes.
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Stage Movement
The Integra is supplied as standard with our excellent DVS variable reduction mechanical stage. The DVS offers both x and y positioning from a single lever, enabling quick and precise positioning of the specimen.
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Microscopes
The Integra can be mounted on any inverted microscope. Please request further information on microscope and optical systems.

RI provide complete solutions for micromanipulation including on-site training if required. We also provide a comprehensive range of accessories for ICSI and PGD including a complete range of sterile micropipettes, packaged in our unique Twista-Pak.