Details

Autor(en) / Beteiligte

• Kaffel, A.
• Taylor, J.
• Orton, L.
• Aiani, J.

Titel

Using simulation to optimize IVF lab resources and meet physiological time constraints

Ist Teil von

• Reproductive biomedicine online, 2024-05, Vol.48, p.103996, Article 103996

Ort / Verlag

Elsevier Ltd

Erscheinungsjahr

2024

Quelle

Alma/SFX Local Collection

Beschreibungen/Notizen

• IVF laboratory procedures are dynamic and increasingly complex. Time spent carrying out procedures and timing in relation with oocyte retrieval are closely linked to performance (ICSI, cryopreservation, embryo survival) but there is very little published data on the subject. Labs are resourced using estimations and often reliant on workarounds that are challenging to plan. The aim of this project is to use a manufactural concept to: 1. design a simulation model for IVF lab processes using a discrete event simulation software (Simul8©), 2. use the simulation model to improve patient outcomes and efficiency. database (BabySentryPro©) and timings from the electronic witnessing system (RI Witness©): 1. To model and map the IVF laboratory processes: replicating every touchpoint of the patient or their gametes/embryo journey, 1. Use retrospective data to validate the model, 2. Identify bottlenecks and deviations from optimal physiological timings, 3. Test strategies (workload and staffing) to take to mitigate against deviation. Key vatiables generated were: - Number of processes completed; using a timetable and determined by resources available within a timeline. - Dynamic input in time (e.g. egg collection, semen analysis, embryo thaws) compared to dynamic output (embryo/egg freezing, embryo transfers, number of spaces utilised in dewars). - Bottlenecks identified by queuing times in procedures vs a set target. - Staff time utilisation (expressed in percentage). - Timing of procedures vs set targets. Currently at the validation stage, preliminary results show a clear dynamic visualisation of processes (inputs and outputs with a timeline). Challenges and limitations identified were representing deviations from set behaviours or unpredictable human choices. Traditionally, IVF laboratory workload/resources are measured by number of weekly egg collections/full-time embryologists in post. Preliminary simulation allowed a dynamic understanding of workload and resources in real time and raised awareness with stakeholders of complexity. Once validation is completed, the aim is to model and identify bottlenecks and test “what if scenarios” to improve patient outcomes and optimise workflow.