Surgical Sperm Retrieval

What is Surgical sperm retrieval?


Surgical sperm retrieval is a method where sperm is directly collected from the Epididymis or the Testis. This technique is essential for achieving fertilization of eggs and helping men father a child. At Plan B Fertility in Hyderabad, we specialize in this Surgical Sperm Retrieval treatment to provide comprehensive support to our patients.

However, because the number of sperm that is retrieved is often very low, and their motility is also low, it is necessary to use ICSI to help fertilize the egg in the laboratory. If a good number of sperms are retrieved, it is possible to freeze/cryopreserve the extra sperms for future use. The sample can then be thawed and used for subsequent treatment when required.

Who requires Surgical Sperm Retrieval?

Surgical sperm retrieval may be a treatment option for men with:

  1. Obstructive Azoospermia: This condition, where the ejaculate does not contain sperm due to an obstruction or other reasons, is one of the key causes of Obstructive Azoospermia we address at our clinic. Possible causes include:
    • An obstruction in the reproductive tract due to injury or infection.
    • Congenital absence of the vas deferens.
    • A prior vasectomy.

Despite these conditions, men can still ejaculate seminal fluid, albeit without sperm. Surgical sperm retrieval has a high success rate at our clinic, often exceeding 90%.

  1. Non-obstructive Azoospermia: In cases where the testicles produce insufficient sperm to reach the vas deferens, known as causes of non-obstructive azoospermia, we can often retrieve sperm directly from the testes. The chance of successful retrieval is approximately 40%.
  2. Severe Asthenozoospermia / Necrozoospermia: For cases where most sperms are non-viable and immotile, using sperm aspirated directly from the testis is necessary. This approach is especially vital for addressing causes of Asthenozoospermia at our facility.
  3. Erectile Dysfunction or Ejaculatory Dysfunction: If less invasive treatments are unsuccessful, surgical sperm retrieval is an available option at our clinic.

What are the types of surgical extraction available at Plan B Fertility in Hyderabad?

PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)

This simple, non-invasive procedure involves the insertion of a needle into the epididymis to aspirate sperm, which is then used for ICSI or frozen for later use. Our clinic provides PESA treatment for male infertility in Hyderabad.

TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)

Like PESA, TESA involves retrieving sperm directly from the testis without surgical incision. Our clinic provides TESA Treatment in Hyderabad.

TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) and MICRO-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction)

TESE involves a minor incision to obtain sperm from the testicular tissue. MICRO-TESE uses advanced micro-dissecting techniques for cases where other methods are unsuccessful. Our clinic provides both TESE and M-TESE Treatment in Hyderabad.

MICRO-TESE or M-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular sperm extraction)

Microsurgical Testicular sperm extraction is a surgical sperm retrieval procedure in which an incision is given in the Testis and an advanced operating micro-dissecting microscope is used to identify the Seminiferous tubules in the Testis which will most probably have sperm. The tissue is then extracted by the Surgeon and the sample is examined under the microscope by the Embryologist for the presence of sperm cells. The sample is then processed and used for ICSI.

Micro-TESE is usually done when TESE has failed to retrieve sperm. It is a minor theatre procedure and can be carried out on an outpatient basis under general anaesthesia.

Why choose one method over another?

Each technique offers unique benefits depending on the specific challenges of sperm production. At Plan B Fertility, our fertility consultants provide personalized advice to determine the most effective method for each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes for starting a family.

For further information or inquiries, please feel free to contact our clinic in Kondapur, Hyderabad.

FAQs

Surgical sperm retrieval procedures such as PESA, TESA, TESE, and Micro-TESE are typically performed under local or general anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Most patients experience minimal pain during the procedure, with possible mild discomfort or swelling post-procedure, which usually resolves quickly.

The cost of sperm retrieval procedures like PESA, TESA, TESE, and Micro-TESE varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure and the additional treatments that may be necessary. At Plan B Fertility in Hyderabad, we ensure our patients are well-informed about all potential costs and provide a detailed consultation to discuss their specific circumstances and treatment options.

The choice between TESA and PESA depends on the specific circumstances of the patient’s fertility issue. PESA is often used when there is a blockage in the epididymis, while TESA may be more appropriate for cases where sperm production is low but not absent.

Common side effects of PESA include minor discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the puncture site. Rarely, there may be more serious complications such as infection or damage to the surrounding tissue. We ensure that all patients at Plan B Fertility are aware of potential side effects and provide comprehensive care to minimize any risks.

The success rates of sperm retrieval techniques like TESA, PESA, TESE, and Micro-TESE vary widely and depend on individual factors such as the underlying cause of infertility and the patient’s overall reproductive health. Generally, TESE and Micro-TESE have higher success rates in more complex cases of non-obstructive azoospermia. At our clinic, we provide detailed statistics based on our latest outcomes to help patients set realistic expectations.

TESA is typically performed under local anesthesia or short general anesthesia which significantly reduces any pain during the procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling afterward, but this is generally well-tolerated and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.