Specimen Processing
A step-by-step guide of the freezing process
Once a donor completes a deposit, our laboratories take the next important steps in preparing the specimen for future use.
- The sample is evaluated for count and motility.
- A determination is made about whether to ICI or IUI process the specimen.
- ICI vials: Cryopreservative is added, and the specimen is transferred into vials that are stored in liquid nitrogen.
- IUI vials: The specimen is processed through density gradient media then washed twice. Cryopreservative is added, and the specimen is transferred into vials that are stored in liquid nitrogen.
- All specimens remain in quarantine for a minimum of six months and will only be released upon receipt of negative disease results obtained at the end of that period.
- Vials manufactured at branch locations are shipped to Los Angeles for quarantine and long-term storage.
