Understanding TESE and TESA Procedures in Male Infertility Treatment
One of the most challenging cases we face at Sago IVF Team North Cyprus is helping couples who struggle with male infertility.
Advancements in medical technologies and scientific breakthroughs have paved the way for various treatments to overcome male infertility conditions.
Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) and testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) specifically are two surgical procedures that assist men with infertility issues to conceive.
Here is an overview of what TESE and TESA are, and how they differ from one another as medical methods.
What is TESE or Testicular Sperm Extraction?
TESE is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a small piece of testicular tissue.
The tissue is then dissected under a microscope to identify and retrieve sperm for use in assisted reproduction techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
When is TESE used?
TESE is often used when there is a lack of viable sperm in the ejaculate or when sperm production is significantly low, such as in cases of non-obstructive azoospermia.
Non-obstructive azoospermia is a condition where sperm is not present in the semen due to the testes not producing any or enough sperm.
TESE can be used to identify and retrieve sperm directly from the testicles.
How is the TESE procedure undertaken?
The TESE procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia or mild sedation.
A small incision is made in the scrotum, and a piece of testicular tissue is removed. The tissue is then dissected under a microscope, and the sperm is extracted.
Once the sperm is obtained, it can be used for ICSI or IVF.
What is TESA or Testicular Sperm Aspiration?
TESA is another surgical procedure used to obtain sperm for use in assisted reproduction techniques.
TESA involves the use of a needle to aspirate fluid and tissue from the testes. The fluid and tissue are then examined under a microscope to identify viable sperm for use in assisted reproduction techniques.
When is TESA used?
TESA is typically used when there is a blockage in the male reproductive tract, preventing sperm from being present in the semen.
This blockage can be caused by conditions such as a vasectomy, a congenital absence of the vas deferens, or a previous infection. TESA can be used to aspirate sperm directly from the testicles.
How does the TESA procedure work?
TESA is a minimally invasive procedure that is also typically carried out under local anaesthesia or mild sedation.
A needle is inserted into the testicle, and fluid and tissue are aspirated. They are examined to identify viable sperm that can be used in assisted reproduction techniques.
What are the differences between TESE and TESA?
The primary difference between TESE and TESA is the method used to obtain sperm.
TESE involves the removal of a small piece of testicular tissue, while TESA involves the use of a needle to aspirate fluid and tissue from the testicles.
TESE is typically used in cases where sperm production is significantly low or absent, while TESA is used when there is a blockage preventing sperm from being present in the semen.
Both procedures are effective in obtaining adequate sperm for use in assisted reproduction techniques and offer hope to men who are previously unable to conceive due to low sperm count or other conditions.
As with any medical procedure, it is essential to consult Sago Team to determine which procedure is most appropriate based on your situation.
