Exploring TESE and TESA: Advanced Techniques Revolutionizing IVF

Exploring TESE and TESA: Advanced Techniques Revolutionizing IVF

TESE and TESA are common procedures often discussed in fertility clinics, especially those focused on IVF. Both are designed to help men with fertility issues related to their reproductive system.

These procedures come into play when no sperm cells are present in a man’s semen. The tricky part about this condition is that it has no visible symptoms and doesn’t cause any pain. The only clue might be repeated failed attempts at conceiving a child.

If you and your partner are experiencing this problem, it’s essential to see a doctor who can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. This might include Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) or Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA).

So, what exactly are TESE and TESA? Both involve retrieving sperm directly from the testicles through a minor surgical procedure for men without viable sperm in their semen.

Some common reasons doctors might suggest TESE or TESA include blockages in the sperm ducts, absence of these ducts from birth, hormonal imbalances, genetic issues, prior cancer treatments involving radiation or hefty medications, and infections like mumps.

TESA, for instance, is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. Typically, it’s done under anesthesia to ensure comfort. The doctor uses an ultra-thin needle attached to a syringe. They carefully insert this needle into the front of the testicle, then use gentle suction to draw out the sperm. The doctor will reposition the needle tip several times to sample different areas of the testicle. Once the needle is removed, the sperm sample is immediately sent to an embryologist to look for viable sperm cells.

If TESA is successful, fertilization usually happens within 72 hours. If fertilization isn’t possible right away, the sperm can be frozen for future use, avoiding the need for another procedure. If TESA doesn’t work, TESE might be the next step.

Despite being relatively new, both TESE and TESA have already helped many couples achieve their dream of becoming parents. In the past, a diagnosis of azoospermia—the condition of having no sperm in the semen—was like a sentence of childlessness for men. But now, these procedures offer real hope and a significant increase in the chances of fatherhood.