Laser-assisted hatching is a laboratory technique used in some cases of in vitro
fertilization (IVF) to help embryos implant in the uterus. During this procedure, a
laser is used to create a small hole in the outer shell of the embryo, called the zona pellucida. This is done shortly before the embryo is transferred to the uterus.

The theory behind laser-assisted hatching is that it can make it easier for the embryo to from the zona pellucida and implant in the lining of the uterus. This may be particularly helpful in cases where the zona pellucida is thick or hard, or if the woman is older and has a lower chance of success with IVF.