Define zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)

Zygote Intra-fallopian Transfer (ZIFT) is a clinical process conducted under assisted reproductive technology. In this process, fertilization is conducted outside the intended mother's reproductive system by fertilizing the retrieved eggs and collected sperm in a laboratory. Then, the fertilized eggs are transferred into the fallopian tube of the intended mother. ZIFT also referred to as tubal embryo transfer (TET).

Difference between ZIFT and GIFT?

• In ZIFT, the retrieved egg and collected sperm are fertilized in the highly specialized laboratory and then the created embryo is transferred to the fallopian tube of the intended mother. Whereas, In Gamete intrafallopian transfer(GIFT), the mixture of retrieved egg and collected sperm is directly transferred into the Fallopian tube without conducting the fertilization process. In this process, fertilization takes place inside the intended mother's womb.
• The confirmation of fertilization is possible ZIFT, as the process is conducted outside of the body. This cannot possible in case of GIFT, as fertilization takes place endogenously (inside the body).
• The success rate of pregnancy outcome is higher in ZIFT than GIFT, as physicians ensure the fertilization.

However, the primary similarity in ZIFT and GIFT is in both these processes can be possible to conduct in case of female partner has at least a single healthy fallopian tube.

ZIFT Procedure

The detailed procedure of ZIFT is as follows:

• At the initial stage, ovarian stimulation is conducted by administering medications to increase the production of more eggs in the woman's ovaries.
• The eggs are retrieved from the womb through an aspiration method.
• A similar process has followed like IVF for fertilization of eggs in the ZIFT process also. And then, the fertilized eggs are transferred into the fallopian tube.
• In ZIFT, fallopian tube transfer of the fertilized egg is conducted within 24 hours of the fertilization through a laparoscopic procedure.
• In the fertilized egg transmission process, a catheter is placed deep in the fallopian tube to eject out the fertilized eggs.
• In the final step, fertility experts conducted some pregnancy tests, including a blood test to confirm the pregnancy after the arrival of early pregnancy symptoms.

When ZIFT application cannot be possible?

ZIFT is an assisted reproductive technique and usually considered as a fertility treatment for every infertile couple. ZIFT usually recommended for couples who have failed to conceive normally after trying for at least one year or repeated failure of ovarian stimulation with intra-uterine-insemination. Following are certain cases, where ZIFT is not possible:

• Blockade in the fallopian tubes
• Marked damage in the fallopian tubes
• Severe intrauterine adhesions due to an anatomical problem
• Sperm unable to infiltrate an egg for fertilization

Similarities between IVF and ZIFT:

• In both of these processes, embryo culture media is utilized,
• Embryo quality assessment is possible in both of these procedures.

Difference between IVF and ZIFT :

• In ZIFT, an extra process like laparoscopic intervention is conducted for tube transmission; but in IVF does not require such type of laparoscopic intervention.
• ZIFT cannot be possible with a damaged fallopian tube, whereas IVF can be recommended for such patients.
• In ZIFT the fertilized eggs are transferred into the fallopian tube within 24 hours, whereas, in IVF, the embryo transmission process is conducted in a time frame between 3 to 5 days.
• In ZIFT the fertilized eggs are transferred into the fallopian tube of the intended mother, whereas, in IVF, the embryo is transferred into the intended mother's womb.