When the male partner has fertility issues that are identified in the analysis or other tests, we combine ICSI with advanced sperm retrieval procedures.
Sperm production problems can result from hormonal problems, testicular failure, varicocele, or varicose veins in the testicles. We perform the following sperm retrieval procedures:
PESA (Percutaneous Sperm Aspiration)
Sperm is collected directly from the epididymis (a reservoir of sperm that sits atop each testicle) using a syringe and fine needle.
TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)
A fine needle is passed directly into the testes to retrieve a small number of the seminiferous tubules. Seminiferous tubules are located within the testes, and are the specific location of meiosis, and the subsequent creation of male gametes, namely spermatozoa.
TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction)
Process of removing a small portion of tissue from the testicle and extracting the few viable sperm cells present in that tissue.
Micro TESE
Performed on each testicle through a very small incision in the scrotum. The testicles are opened through the incision and examined by a high power microscope to identify the seminiferous tubules that contain sperm. A sample is taken and a suture is used to close up the area (will dissolve leaving little or no scar).
The success rate of these surgical sperm retrieval methods is very similar to the success using sperm ejaculation. The sperm collected can then be examined and used as part of the IVF with ICSI process.