ABSTRACT
Most IVF programs incorporate varying mechanisms of air filtration towards the protection of their in vitro culture environment. It is most common to use a combination of adsorbing activated carbon, oxidizing potassium permanganate (KMnO4), and high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration with positive pressure, and an adequate number of air changes per hour within the laboratory and clinical space. Recent data has indicated that the use of carbon, KMnO4, and HEPA filtration, alone or in combination, is inadequate in remediating VOCs, viable particulates, and nonviable particulates to the levels necessary for an optimal in vitro culture environment.6,7,9,10 These systems are also challenged and often overwhelmed by the large number of sources of airborne contaminants common to most IVF programs. Filters and filter media are not absolute. They are dynamic in that they are influenced by the environment to which they are exposed. It has been demonstrated that HEPA filtered laboratory air can carry far greater levels of VOCs and threatening contaminants than unfiltered outside air.2 Equipment, instrumentation, and personnel activities within the IVF laboratory are significant sources of off-gassing and therefore can emit high levels of VOCs into the air environment.1-3,11,12
Laboratory personnel, alone, constitute one of the greatest sources of bioburden, adding bacteria, viruses, and mold spores to the culture environment.12 The design of the IVF laboratory, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and air purification systems are therefore critical in determining the future success of human embryogenesis and clinical outcomes.
