Makler Counting Chamber

The Makler Counting Chamber is an easy-to-use device for rapid and accurate sperm counting, motility, and morphology assessment, from undiluted samples. The Makler Sperm Counting Chamber can be used to perform a sperm count from an undiluted semen sample during procedures related to IVF and andrology.

Definition:

The Makler chamber is a disposable plastic device used in reproductive medicine to evaluate the concentration and motility of sperm in semen samples. It consists of two chambers separated by a coverslip, allowing for an accurate assessment of sperm concentration and motility.

Parts of Chamber:

The chamber is composed of two parts:

1. The bottom part has a metal base and two handles. In the center of the base is a flat disk of flat optical glass on which the sample is placed.
2. The top is the coverslip surrounded by a metal ring. In the center of its bottom surface is a 1 mm2 grid, subdivided into 100 squares, each 0.1 x 0.1 mm.

When the coverslip is placed on all four corners, the space bounded in a row of 10 squares is exactly one millionth of a mL. Therefore, the number of sperm heads in 10 squares indicates their concentration in millions/mL.

Features and Advantages:

1. Easy to use: Sperm count performed from undiluted samples.
2. Quick Results: The number of sperm counted in any 10-square strip of the grid indicates their concentration in millions/mL. No additional factors are necessary for the calculation.
3. Optimal depth: 10 micron depth eliminates blurring and allows sperm to move freely. The applied sample is observed in a focal plane.
4. Built-in grid: The grid is in the coverslip. This eliminates the need to insert a grid into the microscope eyepiece and remove it when not needed.
5. Economic: Reusable. Easily cleans with a non-bleach disinfectant solution.
6. Self-Controlled Accuracy – Observing color fringes at all four contact points provides a self-controlled test of accuracy. The coverslip can never be lifted by the applied sample.
7. Unnecessary calibration: repeated use with full accuracy without calibration.
8. Superior Technology: Manufactured by state-of-the-art precision engineering. Individually laser checked for precision and accuracy.
9. 20X objective or 20X eyepieces required

Cleaning and preparation for reuse:

Do not rinse or immerse the camera in tap water. Dip the brush in water or a non-corrosive antiseptic solution and simply wipe both sides of the glasses. Then, squeeze the brush and remove any remaining water with a sponge. Finally, dry the surface with the lint-free lens paper.

Avoid touching the pin tips as much as possible. The chamber is now ready for reuse.

The Makler CASA Sperm Counting Chamber is the same as the non-Casa system, with the exception of the glass cover that does not have a grid.

Procedure and Protocol:

IMPORTANT: REMEMBER TO HEAT THE MACHINE TO 37ºC BEFORE USING IT (10 MINUTES IN THE INCUBATOR OR ON THE WARMING PLATFORM).

1. Mix the sample well, taking care to avoid bubble formation.
2. With the help of a wooden stick or a pipette, place a small drop in the center of the disk area.
3. Grasp the coverslip with the fingers opposite the black dots and immediately place the coverslip onto the four pins.
4. Press gently, looking again for the appearance of the colored stripes.
5. The droplet will spread over the entire disk area with a thickness of 10 microns.
6. Once the coverslip is in place, avoid touching, lifting, and re-covering it, as this can change the even distribution of sperm within the chamber.
7. Pick up the camera by its handles and place it on the microscope stage.
8. You can use the camera grip to adjust it properly.

Count the Sperm:

Sperm heads within the grid squares are counted in the same way that blood cells are counted in a hemocytometer.

If the number of sperm is considerable, count their number in a strip of 10 squares. This number represents its concentration in millions per mL.

Repeat this count on another strip or two, to determine the average. Alternatively or optionally, it is recommended that the count be made from 2-3 more drops of the sample to increase the reliability of the count determination. In the case of oligospermic samples, it is suggested to count the sperm in the entire grid area. Five zeros are then added to the counted number and the result is the concentration in millions per mL.

FAQs:

What is the Makler chamber?

The Makler chamber is a disposable plastic device used in reproductive medicine to evaluate the concentration and motility of sperm in semen samples.

How does the Makler chamber work?

The chamber consists of two chambers separated by a coverslip, with the upper chamber having a depth of 10 microns and the lower chamber having a depth of 20 microns. A semen sample is placed on the coverslip, which allows the sperm to settle into the chambers by capillary action. The sperm in the chambers are then counted and assessed under a microscope.

Who invented the Makler chamber?

The Makler chamber was invented by Dr. Michael Makler, an Israeli physician, in the early 1980s.

Why is the Makler chamber preferred over other types of counting chambers?

The Makler chamber allows for a more accurate assessment of sperm concentration and motility compared to other types of counting chambers. It is also easy to use, disposable, and cost-effective.

How long can the Makler chamber be stored?

The Makler chamber is a disposable device and should be used immediately after opening. It should not be stored for an extended period of time.

How is the Makler chamber disposed of after use?

The Makler chamber is a single-use device and should be disposed of in a biohazard waste container.

What are the advantages of using the Makler chamber in evaluating male infertility?

The Makler chamber allows for an accurate and reliable assessment of sperm concentration and motility, which are important factors in evaluating male infertility. It is also easy to use and cost-effective.

Are there any potential limitations or sources of error when using the Makler chamber?

Like all diagnostic tests, there is a potential for error when using the Makler chamber. Possible sources of error include inadequate sample collection or preparation, technical errors during the assessment process, and variation in results due to biological factors such as sperm morphology.

How long does it take to perform a Makler chamber evaluation?

The Makler chamber evaluation typically takes about 10-15 minutes to complete.

Is the Makler chamber available worldwide?

Yes, the Makler chamber is widely available in reproductive clinics and laboratories around the world.

Are there any special considerations or precautions that should be taken when using the Makler chamber?

It is important to follow the instructions for use provided with the Makler chamber to ensure accurate and reliable results. The device should be used only by trained personnel in a laboratory setting, and appropriate safety measures should be taken when handling semen samples.

Can the Makler chamber be used to evaluate sperm in frozen semen samples?

Yes, the Makler chamber can be used to evaluate sperm in fresh or frozen semen samples.

Can the Makler chamber be used to evaluate sperm from other species besides humans?

Yes, the Makler chamber can be used to evaluate sperm from other species, including animals. However, the chamber should be selected based on the appropriate dimensions for the sperm being evaluated.