Surgical sperm retrieval refers to the use of techniques to collect sperm from the epididymis or testicles when sperm are not present in the male partner’s ejaculated semen.
At Concept Fertility the surgical sperm retrieval options we offer are epidydimal aspiration and testicular biopsy.
Surgical sperm retrieval techniques are used to collect sperm when there are no sperm present in the ejaculated semen. Sperm are produced in the testes and are then stored in the epidymis as they mature. It is possible for sperm to be present in the epidymis or testes but not in the ejaculated semen. There are several possible causes for this including:
The number of sperm retrieved through surgical means is typically very low, therefore the sperm is generally used in combination with Intra Cytoplastic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Sometimes enough sperm is retrieved to be frozen for use in future ICSI cycles.
Both surgical procedures can be performed under either local anaesthetic or sedation. Your doctor will discuss with you your preferred options.
This procedure involves the specialist inserting a needle into the epididymis, then gently aspirating the fluid from the epididymis. The epididymis is a tube into which the sperm first enters after developing and leaving the testicles. The fluid is processed in the laboratory and checked for the presence of sperm. If sperm are present in the sample, it can be used to fertilise eggs, or frozen for future use.
A very fine needle is passed into the testicles, and some of the tissue is removed. The collected tissue is then processed in the laboratory and checked for the presence of sperm. If sperm are present it can be used to fertilise eggs, or frozen for future use.
Overall, surgical sperm retrieval is safe. However, as with all medical procedures there are some risks involved. These should be discussed with your fertility specialist if this procedure is an option for you.