Treatment Options
Sperm Retrieval
What is Sperm Retrieval?
Sperm Retrieval is a commonly used procedure in which sperm is aspirated or extracted from the male reproductive tract (testes or epididymis), sometimes requiring the use of a microscope.
Why Sperm Retrieval?
In certain cases, male factors may play a major role in infertility for couples. Poor sperm motility or quality are common causes for male infertility. In many cases, the sperms themselves are completely absent in the semen that is ejaculated. This condition is called Azoospermia.
One major factor that could cause Azoospermia is the obstruction of semen flow. Past injuries, trauma, or infection in the genital area may cause this blockage. Although rare, a small percentage of the male population suffers from Congenital Bilateral Absence of Vas Deferens (CBAVD). This is a major cause of Azoospermia and is known to occur in men with cystic fibrosis.
How does Sperm Retrieval work?
To assist with reproduction, there are several different types of sperm retrieval procedures available to help individuals with fertility issues. There are techniques like TESA, TESE, MESA, and PESA that facilitate the extraction of sperm from the male reproductive system. Listed below are more details about each sperm retrieval procedure.
Types of Procedures
PESA
Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) uses a small needle to pass directly into the head of the epididymis through the scrotal skin. Fluid is then aspirated, and the embryologist can use the fluid to retrieve sperm cells under a microscope.
MESA
Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA) involves the dissection of the epididymis and an incision on the tubule. The incision will allow the fluids to pool onto the epididymal bed and be aspirated for sperm retrieval.
TESA
Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) is where a small sample of tissue is taken from the testicle. This tissue will then be used to search for sperm.
TESE
Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) is a surgical procedure that opens the testicle to extract a larger sample of tissue to search and retrieve sperm. General anesthesia will be used during this process.