Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) and Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) are sperm retrieval procedures that may be considered for men with azoospermia, a condition in which sperm are absent from the ejaculate. These procedures involve obtaining sperm directly from the testes for potential use in assisted reproductive treatment, particularly Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) as part of an IVF cycle.
TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) involves inserting a fine needle into the testis to collect testicular material that may contain sperm. The retrieved material is examined in the laboratory to identify sperm suitable for use in fertility treatment.
TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) involves making a small surgical incision to obtain a sample of testicular tissue. The tissue is then examined in the laboratory to identify and retrieve sperm, if present.
Both procedures may be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the technique and individual clinical requirements. Procedure duration and recovery time vary according to the method used and the patient’s medical circumstances.
The choice between TESA and TESE depends on the underlying cause of azoospermia, previous investigations, and clinical assessment. Successful sperm retrieval is not guaranteed, particularly in cases involving impaired sperm production.
TESA and TESE may be considered for men with azoospermia, including selected cases of obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia. These procedures may also be considered when sperm are absent from the ejaculate due to previous vasectomy or certain other reproductive conditions.
The choice of sperm retrieval technique depends on the underlying cause of infertility, testicular function, previous medical investigations, and individual clinical findings. In selected cases of non-obstructive azoospermia, microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) may be considered. Successful sperm retrieval cannot be guaranteed.
TESA or TESE may be considered for men with:
Selected cases of obstructive azoospermia
Certain cases of non-obstructive azoospermia, depending on the retrieval technique
Previous vasectomy associated with obstructive azoospermia
Selected male factor infertility conditions requiring testicular sperm retrieval
Absence of sperm in the ejaculate following appropriate medical evaluation
Previous unsuccessful sperm retrieval attempts, depending on the underlying condition
The choice of procedure depends on the cause of infertility, clinical findings, and individual treatment requirements. Micro-TESE may be considered in selected cases of non-obstructive azoospermia.
Allow sperm retrieval attempts directly from the testes
Retrieved sperm may be used for ICSI as part of an IVF treatment cycle
TESA uses needle aspiration, while TESE involves surgical collection of testicular tissue
May provide an option for attempting sperm retrieval in selected cases of azoospermia
Retrieved sperm may be cryopreserved for future fertility treatment when appropriate
Successful sperm retrieval, fertilization, and pregnancy cannot be guaranteed. Potential risks include pain, bleeding, infection, and testicular injury. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and individual medical circumstances.
Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) involves using a fine needle to collect testicular material that may contain sperm. Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) involves obtaining a small sample of testicular tissue through a surgical incision. The choice of procedure depends on the underlying cause of infertility and individual clinical findings.
TESA or TESE may be considered for men with selected cases of obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia, including conditions where sperm are absent from the ejaculate. The choice of sperm retrieval method depends on the underlying diagnosis and medical evaluation. Micro-TESE may be considered in certain cases of non-obstructive azoospermia.
TESA and TESE may be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the procedure and individual requirements. Patients may experience temporary pain, swelling, tenderness, or discomfort after the procedure. Recovery time and discomfort vary between individuals.
Sperm retrieval outcomes vary depending on the underlying cause of azoospermia, testicular function, and the retrieval technique used. Sperm retrieval is generally more predictable in obstructive azoospermia than in non-obstructive azoospermia. However, successful retrieval cannot be guaranteed. A fertility specialist at Neelkanth IVF Centre can discuss the available options based on individual clinical findings.
Yes. Sperm retrieved through TESA or TESE 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. The suitability of the retrieved sperm depends on laboratory assessment, and fertilization or pregnancy cannot be guaranteed.
