Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) is a sperm retrieval procedure that may be used in selected cases of obstructive azoospermia. In this condition, sperm are produced in the testes, but a blockage or absence of part of the reproductive tract prevents sperm from being present in the ejaculate.
During the procedure, a fine needle is inserted through the skin to collect fluid containing sperm from the epididymis, a structure where sperm mature and are stored. PESA may be performed under local anesthesia or other appropriate anesthesia, depending on individual clinical requirements.
Retrieved sperm may be used for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) as part of an IVF treatment cycle. The timing of sperm retrieval is planned according to the treatment protocol, and retrieved sperm may be used in the same cycle or cryopreserved for future use when appropriate.
PESA may be considered for men with obstructive azoospermia associated with previous vasectomy, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or certain reproductive tract obstructions related to infection, injury, or surgery. The choice of sperm retrieval method depends on medical evaluation, the underlying condition, and individual treatment requirements.
PESA may be considered for men with:
Obstructive azoospermia
Previous vasectomy associated with obstructive azoospermia
Congenital absence of the vas deferens
Certain reproductive tract blockages affecting sperm transport
Selected cases of male infertility requiring epididymal sperm retrieval
The suitability of PESA depends on the underlying cause of infertility, clinical evaluation, and individual treatment requirements.
Allows sperm retrieval from the epididymis in selected cases of obstructive azoospermia
Uses needle aspiration without a conventional surgical incision
May be performed under local anesthesia or other appropriate anesthesia
May involve a shorter recovery period than some open surgical sperm retrieval procedures
Retrieved sperm may be used for ICSI as part of IVF treatment or cryopreserved when appropriate
PESA does not guarantee successful sperm retrieval or pregnancy. Potential risks include pain, bleeding, infection, and injury to the epididymis. Alternative sperm retrieval methods may be considered if suitable sperm cannot be obtained.
Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) is a sperm retrieval procedure in which a fine needle is used to collect fluid containing sperm from the epididymis. It may be considered in selected cases of obstructive azoospermia as part of fertility treatment.
PESA may be considered for men with obstructive azoospermia, including certain cases involving previous vasectomy, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or reproductive tract blockages. Suitability depends on the underlying condition and individual medical evaluation.
PESA may be performed under local anesthesia or another appropriate form of anesthesia. Patients may experience discomfort during or after the procedure, including temporary pain, tenderness, or swelling. The level of discomfort varies between individuals.
PESA involves collecting sperm-containing fluid from the epididymis using a fine needle. Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) involves obtaining sperm directly from the testes through needle aspiration. The choice of procedure depends on the cause of infertility and clinical assessment.
Yes. Sperm retrieved through PESA may be used for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) as part of an IVF treatment cycle. Retrieved sperm may also be cryopreserved for future use when appropriate. Successful sperm retrieval, fertilization, and pregnancy cannot be guaranteed.
