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Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA)
Expert diagnosis and advanced treatment for male fertility issues, backed by Birla Fertility & IVF's network of specialists and labs across India.
Get ConsultationWhat is TESA?
TESA is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles. It is suggested for a condition where sperm is produced but not present in the ejaculate due to a blockage (obstructive azoospermia).
The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia. A fine needle is used to aspirate sperm from the testicular tissue. The collected sperm can then be used for Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) or can be frozen for future use.
TESA offers a viable solution for men who are unable to produce viable sperm through ejaculation. It enables them to father biological children with assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
Why Do Doctors Recommend TESA?
Each case is unique and TESA is suggested based on the fertility specialists’ views, an individual’s medical history and the causes behind infertility. TESA is recommended in specific cases related to male fertility, including:
- Azoospermia: A condition where no sperm is present in the ejaculate due to a blockage or failure in sperm production.
- Previous Vasectomy: Men who underwent vasectomy and now want to have children without opting for vasectomy reversal.
- Failed Vasectomy Reversal: Cases where vasectomy reversal was unsuccessful.
- Genetic Issues: Men suffering from genetic issues that affect sperm production
- ART: TESA is often used in combination with ART techniques like IVF or ICSI.
- Inadequate Sperm Production: Men with very low sperm counts or poor sperm morphology.
TESA Procedure: How Is It Performed?
TESA is a procedure used to retrieve sperm from the testicles for fertility treatments. Here’s a concise overview of the procedure:
- Preparation: The individual is asked to refrain from ejaculation a few days before the TESA procedure.
- Sedation: TESA is generally performed under local anaesthesia to numb the testicles, ensuring patient comfort.
- Sterilisation: The scrotal area is cleaned and sterilised to minimise infection risk.
- Needle Insertion: A fine needle is carefully inserted into the testicle to aspirate fluid and tissue containing sperm cells.
- Sperm Extraction: The collected fluid and tissues are processed in the lab to isolate and retrieve viable sperm cells.
- Bandage: The punctured site is cleaned and bandaged. The patient is kept under observation for a short period to ensure that there are no complications.
- Fertility Treatment/Sperm Preservation: Retrieved sperm can be used immediately for IVF or ICSI procedures, or frozen for future use.
The patient could be recommended ice packs or over-the-counter painkillers to reduce discomfort. The patient is advised to rest and refrain from strenuous activities for a few days after the TESA procedure.
What You Should Know Before Undergoing TESA
Before the Treatment
- Medical Evaluation: The doctor reviews your medical history and may recommend blood tests and physical examinations.
- Medications: Inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking. The doctor may ask you to stop them before the procedure.
- Abstinence: Your doctor may ask you to abstain from ejaculation before the procedure.
- Consultation: Discuss procedure details, risks, and benefits.
During the Treatment
- Here is what you can typically expect during your TESA procedure:
- At the facility, you will be taken to a preparation area where you will change into a hospital gown. The scrotal area would be cleaned and sterilised.
- Under local anaesthesia, you will stay awake but should not feel any pain.
- Under general anaesthesia, you will be asleep during the procedure.
- A fine needle is inserted into the skin of the scrotum. You may feel a slight pressure under local anaesthesia.
After the Treatment
- Your health will be monitored for any complications. Over-the-counter pain relievers are used to manage mild discomfort/swelling. The retrieved sperm can be immediately used for fertility treatments or cryopreserved.
Azoospermia
Treatment depends on whether sperm production or blockage is the cause.
Advanced techniques can help retrieve sperm in many cases.
Bartholin Cysts Treatment
Treated with the help of medication or minor procedures to relieve pain and prevents infection.
Blocked Fallopian Tube
Mostly treated with surgery or IVF, depending on the severity of the blockage to prevent delays in conception.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer depends on the stage and may include surgery or therapy. Regular screening helps detect it early and improve outcomes.
Irregular Periods
Treatment focuses on identifying hormonal or lifestyle causes. Correct diagnosis helps restore cycle regularity and fertility.
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
A simple, low-intervention fertility treatment where the washed sperm is placed directly to the uterus for pregnancy.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
Eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory and the resulting embryo is placed into the uterus.
Miscarriage
Evaluation is performed properly to identify possible medical causes and improve the chances in future pregnancies.
Male Infertility
Treatment depends on sperm count, motility, or hormonal factors to improve the chances of conception.
Ovarian Cysts
Monitored and treated with the help of medication like hormonal contraception to prevent new cysts for persistent, large, or painful cysts.
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