TESE- Testicular Sperm Extraction

ThursdayThoughts

As promised, each Thursday, we will now offer you a piece of educational, science, or research related information.  The purpose of our #ThursdayThoughts post is to share with you fact-based content that can enlighten and assist you on your fertility journey.  Enjoy our post! Helping to Create New Beginnings…

TESE- Testicular Sperm Extraction

What is it?
TESE or a testicular sperm extraction is a surgical procedure that consists of removing a small portion of tissue from the testicle and extracting any viable sperm cells. The procedure is done by making a small incision in the testis and extracting tissue that is likely to have sperm in it. This procedure is done by a urologist and is typically performed under local anesthesia. A small needle and special syringe are used to extract the tissue. The andrology staff will then look under a microscope to find the sperm. The sperm can be used fresh to fertilize eggs right away, or they can be frozen.

When is it used?
TESE is used in the case of azoospermia (no sperm in ejaculate) in order to retrieve sperm from the testis. TESE is a great option for patients with obstructive azoospermia; causes of this type of azoospermia include recurrent infections, surgery (often times a vasectomy), and certain genetic conditions such as Congenital Absence of the Vas Deferens. TESE can also be utilized in certain cases of non-obstructive azoospermia. Unfortunately, not all cases of azoospermia can be treated with TESE. Your infertility doctor and urologist can help discuss the best options for your particular case.

How is TESE used for fertility?
Retrieving sperm during a TESE is often used in conjunction with fertility treatment. The number of sperm may not be very high and often times the sperm are not motile so the best treatment when using TESE sperm is IVF with ICSI.

IVF is the process of stimulating the ovaries to produce follicles (this is where the eggs are) and then, once those eggs are mature, removing them from the body. The eggs are then cared for in the embryology lab where a skilled embryologist performs ICSI. ICSI or intracytoplasmic sperm injection is when one sperm is taken and put directly into the egg. This will help with fertilization. This is very important when using sperm from a TESE because the sperm are typically not motile and cannot travel to the egg.

For more information regarding evaluation and treatment options that are available, please schedule an appointment with one of our providers at the Fertility Institute of Hawaii 808-545-2800 or visit our website at https://www.ivfcenterhawaii.com