CPT® Code 58323

Sperm washing is a preparatory procedure performed prior to artificial insemination, aimed at enhancing the chances of successful fertilization. This process involves the separation of sperm cells from the seminal fluid, effectively eliminating non-viable sperm, such as dead or slow-moving sperm, as well as removing any chemicals that could hinder the fertilization process. Sperm washing is crucial for improving the quality of sperm that will be used in artificial insemination, thereby increasing the likelihood of conception. There are three primary techniques utilized in sperm washing: the simple wash, the density gradient wash, and the swim-up technique. Each method has its own specific approach to isolating healthy sperm from the semen. The procedure begins with the collection of semen, which can occur through masturbation or, in cases of retrograde ejaculation, may require a separately reportable collection procedure. The subsequent steps in sperm washing involve diluting the semen in a solution that contains antibiotics and protein supplements, followed by centrifugation to concentrate the viable sperm. The density gradient technique further refines this process by utilizing layers of liquids with varying densities to separate active sperm from debris. Lastly, the swim-up technique leverages a culture medium to attract and collect motile sperm as they swim upwards. The concentrated sperm obtained from any of these methods is then prepared for use in a separately reportable artificial insemination procedure.