Surgically Retrieved Sperm

A treatment option available
for men whose semen lacks
the presence of sperm.

INTRODUCTION

Surgical retrieval of sperm is a procedure whereby a small number of sperm are retrieved directly from either the epididymis or from testicles for use in an IVF cycle.

Why?

Typically, sperm retrieval is conducted in preparation for use within an IVF cycle using ICSI/IMSI and may be scheduled to correspond with a partner’s egg collection. Alternatively the procedure can be carried out ahead of time and the samples frozen prior to stimulating the female partner so as to ascertain the presence of sperm before any intervention is attempted on the woman.

The procedures will be recommended in cases where there are complications with a natural semen delivery where a man has previously had a vasectomy, has damage to his vasa deferens (the tubes carrying the sperm), or where there is an absence of the vasa deferens entirely. Your consultant may also recommend this procedure if you have a low sperm count. Your consultant will advise which procedure will be most appropriate for you.

How?

Each of these procedures normally take less than one hour under local anaesthetic and men can leave the clinic after a short recovery period with minimal disruption to day-to-day activities.

Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA)

This is a straight forward procedure which is performed under local anesthetic and involves your sperm being aspirated from the tube that lies above and behind each testicle using a fine needle and syringe. The procedure is carried out by a consultant Uro-Andrologist.

Testicular sperm extraction or Aspiration (TESE/TESA)

TESA- This is a method where your sperm is retrieved directly from within your testicles using a fine needle to extract a small amount of fluid to enable testing for the presence of sperm.

TESE- This is when a small incision is made on the scrotum and a biopsy is taken from the testicle(s).

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Your sperm will be prepared for use in an IVF cycle, including assessment for ICSI or IMSI or can be frozen for later treatments.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE-EFFECTS/RISKS?

Men may experience some discomfort after either procedure but this can be alleviated with normal pain medication.

Treatments

Find out more about our related services

Why Choose Us?

Here are some facts about your fertility journey with us that we’d like to share with you:

Every evaluation and treatment plan is uniquely tailored to meet your individual needs

You will have access to leading professionals, with over 35 years combined expertise, providing you with confidence and reassurance in your fertility diagnosis and subsequent treatment

Our multidisciplinary team includes specialists in fertility, urology, nutrition, counselling, genetics, endocrinology, haematology and weight management to provide a comprehensive range of support as and when you need it

We will work with you closely to understand your individual circumstances, identify any problems and agree with you, the best course of action to help make your dream a reality

We will always be honest and open about your chances of success with treatment.

Your comfort and care is always our top priority

Our focus remains entirely on you as an individual, your unique needs and your wellbeing

All investigations and treatments are provided within our new state-of-the-art clinic based in Elstree which offers a spacious environment with comfortable surroundings, to enhance your care and experience. We offer investigations and scans at our satellite locations too.

Our friendly consultant-led team is here to support you at every step throughout your fertility journey

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