Surgical Options for Sperm Retrieval
PESA - The simplist surgical sperm retrieval procedure is PESA (percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration). Typically this procedure is performed under local anesthesia. During the PESA procedure, sperm may be extracted with a fine needle from the epididymis or from the testes directly, providing they are producing live sperm. ICSI (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection) is always used in conjunction with the PESA procedure. To learn more about this procedure, please see our IVF with ICSI guide.
TESA & TESE - In the event that no sperm is present in the epididymis due to the absence of the epididymis or because of impaired sperm production, sperm may be extracted directly from the testis, by utilizing the TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) or TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction), which involves a biopsy, which is sent for cytology and image analysis.
MESA - The most invasive of the surgical sperm retrieval procedures is the MESA (micro-epididymal sperm aspiration), which is performed under general anesthesia. MESA involves the cutting open of the scrotum to retrieve sperm. The wound is closed with dissolvable stitches. Swelling and pain subsides within a few days, during which prescribed painkillers may be taken to ease the pain.
Sperm extracted from any of the above procedures can be frozen and cryopreserved for future use. To learn more about cryopreservation, see our Sperm Freezing Guide and our Embryo Freezing Guide.
Who can benefit from surgical sperm retrieval procedures?
When there is an absence of sperm from the ejaculate, also known as azoospermia
When sperm is unable to reach the urethra for ejaculation
When there is an absence of the vas deferens, the ducts from which the sperm is transferred to the urethra.
Inadequate sperm production
Coping with infertility: We understand that anticipating the results of IVF can be grueling and stressful on couples, and the possibility of an unsuccessful outcome can be overwhelming. In spite of this, it is important that couples maintain a healthy and clear psyche. Plenty of rest and avoiding stress are highly recommended before, during and after your trip. Keep in mind that you are traveling, which can add more stress on the body. Drink lots of water and try to obtain ample Vitamin D from the sun and fresh air to conquer jetlag.
