Image Processing for Real-Time Ranking and Selection of Spermatozoa

Abstract

A method includes capturing multiple images over time of objects in a sperm sample and using image processing to identify a set of candidate spermatozoa from the objects. The image processing includes identifying the set of candidate spermatozoa based on movement characteristics of the set of candidate spermatozoa observed over time. The method includes, for each respective spermatozoon of the set of candidate spermatozoa, determining a quality metric for the respective spermatozoon based on trajectory characteristics of the respective spermatozoon indicative of motility. The method includes ranking the set of candidate spermatozoa based on the quality metric. The method includes selecting a highest-ranked spermatozoon from the ranking. The method includes displaying at least a portion of the sperm sample on a screen with a visual indicator identifying the selected spermatozoon. The method includes designating the selected spermatozoon for extraction from the sperm sample and attempted fertilization.

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