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Recently Fairfax Cryobank has experienced a rise of questions regarding our IVF (in vitro fertilization) and ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) prep vials. The popularity of the IVF vial has proven that an economical alternative to purchasing a full insemination dose is needed in IVF situations. Thus, in order to better serve this market, Fairfax Cryobank has decided to phase out the IVF prep vial and replace it with the ART prep vial. 

IVF vials: The word IVF implies that the vial is designed for IVF (in vitro fertilization), and therefore, at times is confused that it could only be used for that purpose, when in fact it can be used in any insemination procedure.

ART vials: The name ART better describes the potential uses of our NEW ART prep vial. ART means Assisted Reproductive Technology. All procedures that involve the use of insemination techniques fall under the ART designation and hence the NEW name.

ART vials can be used exactly the same way that the IVF vials were being used, but the ART vial offers a couple of advantages over the IVF vial.

First, Fairfax Cryobank ART vials come in two preparation types: ICI ART (unwashed) and IUI ART (pre-washed). Both the IUI ART, and ICI ART, can be used for all insemination types; however, post-thaw prep may be required. IVF procedures may require additional post thaw preparation of specimens as well.

Second, our ART vial contains more total motile cells than our IVF prep starting at a minimum of 6 million TMC and going up to > 10 million TMC per vial.

ART vial use: If used in an IUI procedure, the IUI ART does not require further preparation after being thawed. Both ICI ART and IUI ART vials can be used in IVF with/without ICSI, ICI, and IUI procedures but may require post thaw processing. Going forward, we anticipate that the ART vial will be more popular than the IVF vial.