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MACS in Seville: magnetic sperm selection

At Viamed Fertility Institute, we know how frustrating it can be when, despite a semen analysis showing good results, embryos fail to develop or fertilisation does not occur. Often, the problem is an “invisible” male factor: sperm cells that appear healthy under the microscope but have begun a process of programmed cell death known as apoptosis.

The MACS technique is the technological solution that allows us to act as an “intelligent filter”, using magnets to separate sperm with the best potential from those that are not viable for creating life.

What is the MACS technique and how does the “magnetic filter” work?

MACS stands for Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting. To explain it simply, imagine passing the semen sample through a high-precision magnet that only captures the “wounded soldiers”.

We use molecules called annexin V columns, which bind specifically to the membrane of sperm cells that are beginning to degrade, a process known as apoptosis. When the sample passes through this magnetic filter, the damaged sperm remain attached to the magnet, while healthy sperm, with an intact membrane and well-preserved DNA, flow freely and can be used for fertilisation.

The value of hospital technology at Viamed Santa Ángela de la Cruz

Performing the MACS technique in a highly complex hospital environment in Seville makes a critical difference. At Viamed Hospital Santa Ángela de la Cruz, this procedure is not an isolated step, but part of an excellence protocol:

Laboratory precision

Our outstanding team of professionals is highly experienced in the use of annexin V columns, ensuring maximum selection without stressing the cell.

Biological safety

As this is a non-invasive technique, the selected sperm cell does not suffer any additional damage, maintaining its full potential to fertilise the egg.

When is MACS key in your treatment?

Not all patients need magnetic filtering, but our medical team considers it essential in the following cases:

Altered DNA fragmentation

Men who have obtained high or borderline results in the sperm DNA fragmentation test.

Fertilisation failure

Couples who have had a low success rate in the union between egg and sperm in previous cycles.

Poor embryo quality

When embryos stop growing or are of low quality, suggesting a problem in the man’s genetic contribution.

Recurrent miscarriage

To minimise the risk of a sperm cell “in the process of dying” being the one that starts the pregnancy.

Benefits: healthier embryos and a higher pregnancy rate

By applying MACS, we achieve tangible results for your dream

Selection with the best prognosis

We use only sperm cells with a functional membrane and intact DNA.

Improved embryo development

The resulting embryos usually have greater strength to reach the blastocyst stage on day 5.

Risk reduction

We reduce the probability of early failures and increase safety for the future baby.

FAQs: questions about the MACS technique in Seville

Not at all. It is a physical and magnetic filter. The healthy sperm cell simply passes through the column without being manipulated or chemically altered, preserving all its natural fertilisation capabilities.

Yes. Depending on the fragmentation diagnosis, whether single-strand or double-strand, our team may recommend a combination of selection techniques to ensure that the chosen sperm cell is as healthy as possible.

As we have our own laboratory within the hospital in Seville, the MACS process is carried out efficiently on the same day as fertilisation or insemination, without delaying the timing of your cycle.

Ensure the best selection for your Life Project

Do not let male factor infertility become an invisible obstacle. Choose magnetic precision and the support of the best hospital team in Seville. We are here to help you choose the best path towards your baby.

REQUEST YOUR SEMEN STUDY WITH MACS HERE
We are here to support you.
  • Call us
954 032 022
We are here to support you.
  • Call us
954 032 022

Dr. Pamela Valdivieso Mejía

gynaecologist and specialist in assisted reproduction

  • Specialist in Gynaecology and Obstetrics (MIR programme) at the Virgen de Valme University Hospital.
  • Master's Degree in Human Reproduction from the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.
  • 11 años de experiencia en reproducción asistida.

Dr. Silvia Valladares Jiménez

Specialist in Endocrinology and Nutrition

  • Specialist in Endocrinology and Nutrition with extensive clinical experience in leading hospitals such as Vall d’Hebron University Hospital and Viamed Santa Ángela de la Cruz Hospital, where she is currently head of department.
  • Her practice focuses on comprehensive patient care, with a particular specialism in reproductive endocrinology, diabetes and endocrine disorders during pregnancy.
  • She has experience in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, thyroid disorders, acromegaly and gynaecomastia, as well as in the management of complex hormonal and metabolic disorders, particularly in female endocrinology.
  • She is actively involved in clinical research, participating in European projects such as EUROCONDOR and PILCHARDUS, as well as contributing to scientific publications and medical conferences. She combines her clinical work with teaching and continuing clinical education.

Dr. José Vilar

GYNAECOLOGIST

  • Bachelor of Medicine from the University of Cádiz.
  • Specialist in gynaecology and obstetrics (Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz).
  • Doctor of Medicine from the University of Cádiz.
  • Master's Degree in Assisted Human Reproduction. Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid.
  • Master's Degree in Lower Genital Tract Pathology and HPV. TECH Technological University.
  • Expert in Gynaecological Oncology. Institute of Continuing Education, University of Barcelona.
  • Over 12 years' experience in assisted reproduction.

Ángeles Bretón

CLINICAL EMBRYOLOGIST

  • Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from Pablo de Olavide University
  • Master's degree in Biology and Assisted Human Reproduction Technology from the European University of Madrid.
  • Completion of specialization courses in the assisted reproduction laboratory and workshops on embryo evaluation and selection.
  • Attendance at fertility conferences and seminars on reproductive medicine.

Dr. Carlos Javier Vega Reina

GYNAECOLOGIST

  • Graduated in Medicine from the University of Cádiz.
  • Specialised in Obstetrics and Gynaecology via MIR at the University Hospital of Puerto Real, Cádiz.
  • Master's Degree in Assisted Human Reproduction from the Complutense University of Madrid.

Dr. María Miró

IMMUNOLOGIST

  • Degree in Medicine, University of Cádiz
  • Specialist in Immunology, Reina Sofía University Hospital.
  • Extensive experience in Primary Care Medicine and Hospital Emergency Rooms
  • Reproductive Immunology. Experience in various reproduction centres

Dr. María Eugenia Molina

HEMATOLOGIST

  • Graduate in General Medicine and Surgery. University of Seville.
  • MIR training as a Specialist in Family and Community Medicine. Virgen Macarena University Hospital. Seville.
  • MIR training as a Specialist in Haematology and Haemotherapy. Nuestra Señora de Valme University Hospital. Seville.
  • Specialist in Haematology and Haemotherapy with practice in different health centres in Seville. Consultations on coagulation, myeloproliferative syndromes, red blood cell disorders, chronic and acute lymphoproliferative syndromes;
  • Specialised in disorders associated with recurrent pregnancy loss

Elena Mantrana Bermejo

Gynecologist. Specialist in Reproductive Medicine

  • Degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Seville.
  • Specialty in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Hospital Universitario de Valme, Seville.
  • Master’s Degree in Human Reproduction from the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.
  • Specialist Physician of the Andalusian Health Service in the South Health Management Area (AGSS) of Seville.
  • Coordinator of the Assisted Human Reproduction Unit of the Hospital Universitario de Valme, Seville.
  • Member of the Human Reproduction Advisory Committee of AGSS of Seville.
  • Member of the working group for the update of the Guide for Assisted Human Reproduction of the Ministry of Health of the Andalusian Regional Government.
  • Tutor of Specialist Doctors in Training of the Teaching Area of the University Hospital of Valme.
  • Clinical Tutor Medical Students University of Seville

Alberto Armijo

Gynecologist. Reproductive Medicine Specialist

  • Degree in Medicine and Surgery from Universidad CEU San Pablo de Madrid.
  • Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics via MIR at the Virgen de Valme University Hospital.
  • Master in Human Reproduction, Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
  • Member of the Standing Committee of the Young Interest Group of the Spanish Fertility Society.
  • Clinical Stay. Division of Ultrasound in Obstetrics. Lis Maternity Hospital (Tel Aviv, Israel)