ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the more typical purpose-built, all-inclusive laboratories that are adjacent or in close proximity to oocyte retrieval, cryo-storage, and embryo transfer facilities, with an emphasis on the special problems of construction. Although the environment, physical plant, and equipment require special consideration in the design of an integrated gamete and embryo culture facility, the staff will carry out the procedures and therefore is essential to the success of the entire operation. What used to be a small room is now becoming a sizable cryo-storage facility, even though offsite storage location is recommended for samples with unclear future dispositions. It may be possible to keep a separate storage closet or space near the building exit where long-term samples, which usually provide the bulk of the storage, can be kept; this would require repeated checking of a facility that is not part of the laboratory.
