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TESA / PESA Sperm Retrieval

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TESA / PESA: Advanced Fertility Treatment for Male Infertility

TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) and PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) are minor surgical procedures used to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis in men with obstructive or certain types of non-obstructive azoospermia.

These techniques are especially useful when sperm is not present in the ejaculate but can still be collected from the reproductive tract and used for ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) as part of an IVF cycle.

Who requires TESA / PESA?

TESA and PESA are recommended when no sperm are present in the ejaculate but may be retrieved from the testicles (TESA) or epididymis (PESA).

Obstructive azoospermia (blockage in the reproductive tract)
Failed vasectomy reversal or other obstruction
Congenital absence of the vas deferens
Certain cases of non-obstructive azoospermia

How Does TESA / PESA Work?

TESA uses a needle to aspirate sperm from the testicle; PESA aspirates fluid and sperm from the epididymis. Both are done under local or light anesthesia. Retrieved sperm are used for ICSI in an IVF cycle.

TESA / PESA Procedure

Sperm retrieval is typically done on the day of or before egg retrieval:

1

Evaluation

Confirm azoospermia and decide between TESA, PESA, or MicroTESE based on cause.

2

TESA or PESA

Under local anesthesia, a needle is used to aspirate sperm from the testicle (TESA) or epididymis (PESA).

3

Lab processing

Sample is processed; sperm are isolated for ICSI (fresh or frozen).

4

ICSI

Retrieved sperm are used to fertilize eggs in an IVF-ICSI cycle.

Benefits of TESA / PESA

Minimally invasive sperm retrieval

Same-day or short procedure

Enables ICSI when ejaculate has no sperm

Proven in obstructive azoospermia

TESA / PESA Success Rate

Sperm retrieval success is high in obstructive azoospermia. In non-obstructive azoospermia, success varies; MicroTESE may be recommended if TESA/PESA fail.

Risks and Possible Complications

Risks are generally low:

Bruising, bleeding, or discomfort at the site
Small risk of infection
Possibility that no sperm are found (especially in NOA)

Recovery After TESA / PESA

Recovery is quick; most men resume normal activities within a few days. Avoid strenuous exercise as advised. Supportive underwear may be recommended.

Cost of TESA / PESA

Cost includes the procedure and lab processing; it is often part of your IVF-ICSI package. Get a detailed TESA/PESA cost estimate at your consultation.