The damage is usually extensive and will destroy the oocyte. While ICSI represents a relatively new procedure, it is not considered experimental and several thousands of babies have been born worldwide. Overall pregnancy precautions should be that of other IVF pregnancies. However, there appears to be a special consideration that has arisen in several reports describing transmission of a chromosomal alteration from men with very low sperm counts. It is possible that the offspring from these men could also be sub-fertile.
Genetic testing is offered to all males with severe and otherwise unexplained very low sperm counts.
Testing may also be important for the female partner in these cases.