Testicular Sperm Extraction

Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) is a surgical procedure used to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles of men who have problems with sperm production or sperm release.

TESE is commonly performed for men with certain types of infertility, such as:

1. Azoospermia: A condition where there is no sperm present in the ejaculate due to either obstructive azoospermia (blockage preventing sperm release) or non-obstructive azoospermia (problems with sperm production).
2. Oligospermia: A condition characterized by a low sperm count in the ejaculate, where the sperm count is insufficient for natural conception.

• Surgical Retrieval: TESE is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia or sedation. A small incision is made in the scrotum, and a tiny piece of testicular tissue is removed from one or both testicles.
• Tissue Examination: The testicular tissue sample is examined under a microscope by an embryologist to identify and isolate sperm cells. In cases of obstructive azoospermia, sperm may be present within the testicles but unable to reach the ejaculate due to a blockage.
• Sperm Extraction: If sperm are found within the testicular tissue, they are carefully extracted and prepared for use in assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
• Use in Assisted Reproduction: The retrieved sperm can then be used immediately for fertilization in conjunction with IVF or ICSI. In cases where multiple sperm are retrieved, any excess sperm may be cryopreserved (frozen) for future use.