sperm-retrieval

What is surgical sperm retrieval

This technique involves the retrieval of sperm directly from either the testes (TESTA) or the epididymes (PESA) for use in ICSI in case a man lacks any sperm in his semen or is unable to ejaculate.

OVERVIEW

What is surgical sperm retrieval (TESA / PESA)?

In some males, there will be no sperm cells in the semen that is ejaculated or they might have other medical conditions which result in absence of ejaculation. For those men sperm cells can be extracted directly from the testicles (TESA - Testicular Sperm Aspiration) or from the epididymis (PESA - Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration). There are one or two more methods too which are used for this process like micro-TESE or MESA. All of these are minor procedures which are performed using a fine needle with the help of local anesthesia or sometimes with light sedation. This procedure takes about 20-30 minutes and no hospitalization is required for this. Men will feel some slight discomfort and swelling in the area where the procedure is performed for 1-2 days only. They will get back to their normal work within 24 hours after this procedure. But exercise or sex is prohibited until 2-3 days.

Step by step

How surgical sperm retrieval works

A short day-care procedure.

01

Preparation

Blood tests, hormonal assessment and often genetic testing first, to establish whether the cause is obstructive or non-obstructive. Fasting instructions are given, and you will need someone to accompany you home.

02

The procedure

A fine needle collects fluid or tissue from the epididymis (PESA) or testis (TESA) under local anaesthesia or light sedation. The sample is examined immediately by an embryologist.

03

Recovery and use

Home the same day. Mild discomfort and swelling for a few days. Retrieved sperm are used fresh with ICSI, or frozen for a later cycle.

For Whom

Is surgical sperm retrieval right for you?

Surgical sperm retrieval is recommended for men who do not have sperm in their ejaculate or are unable to ejaculate naturally due to certain medical or structural conditions. It’s especially relevant if:

You have azoospermia (lack of sperm in the semen) due to either obstructive or non-obstructive reasons.
You have undergone a vasectomy or you were born without the vas deferens and sperm cannot enter the ejaculate.
You cannot ejaculate because of injury to your spine or for some medical reason.
ICSI is being done, and you need to provide your sperm through the testis/epididymis.

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