Surgical sperm retrieval is a specialised medical procedure used to collect sperm directly from the testicles, forming an essential part of Surgical Sperm Retrieval Techniques in Delhi for men dealing with complex fertility issues. It is often used alongside treatments like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Depending on the patient’s condition, sperm may be retrieved through a fine needle or via a small biopsy. This procedure is especially beneficial for men with extremely low sperm count, a past vasectomy, or those unable to ejaculate due to injury, illness, or nerve-related complications.
WHY CHOOSE SURGICAL SPERM RETRIEVAL?
Surgical Sperm Retrieval is a reliable option when sperm production occurs normally but cannot reach the urethra due to blockages or ejaculation difficulties. It provides a direct method to collect sperm for advanced male infertility treatments.
OBSTRUCTION IN THE VASA DEFERENTIA
The vasa deferentia are ducts that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra. When these tubes are blocked—either naturally or due to a vasectomy—sperm cannot exit the body. Modern surgical techniques allow sperm to be extracted directly from the testes, bypassing the obstruction.
ABSENCE OF THE VASA DEFERENTIA
Some men are born without vasa deferentia, meaning the natural sperm pathway never forms. In such cases, surgical retrieval is crucial to access sperm that remain inside the reproductive system.
LOW SPERM COUNT
When sperm production is significantly low, sperm may not move efficiently through the ducts. Surgical retrieval enables specialists to extract and concentrate available sperm to improve fertilisation potential.
IS SURGICAL SPERM RETRIEVAL RIGHT FOR ME?
You may be a suitable candidate if you have:
• Blocked or missing vasa deferentia
• Low sperm production
• A history of vasectomy
While certain blockages can be surgically corrected, retrieval combined with ICSI generally offers higher success rates.
STEPS INVOLVED IN SURGICAL SPERM RETRIEVAL
Sperm retrieval can be performed using any of the following techniques:
PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
PESA is a quick, minimally invasive method where a fine needle is used to aspirate sperm directly from the epididymis. It is commonly recommended for men with obstructive infertility, including those with post-vasectomy blockages. The procedure is simple, safe, and performed under local anaesthesia.
TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)
TESA involves inserting a needle into the testicle to collect sperm-containing tissue. It is often used for men with non-obstructive azoospermia. The extracted tissue is examined in the lab to locate viable sperm for ICSI. TESA is effective when epididymal retrieval is not an option.
MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
MESA is a detailed microsurgical procedure performed under a high-precision microscope. A tiny incision is made in the epididymis to extract highly motile sperm. This technique is ideal for men with obstructive azoospermia, especially when multiple IVF or ICSI cycles may be planned.
Micro-TESE (Micro Testicular Sperm Extraction)
Micro-TESE is the most advanced retrieval method available. Using a powerful operating microscope, the surgeon identifies and extracts the healthiest sperm-producing areas within the testicles. It is especially effective for severe non-obstructive azoospermia and maximises sperm recovery while conserving testicular tissue.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH SURGICAL SPERM RETRIEVAL
Though minimally invasive, the procedure may involve minor risks such as:
SWELLING AND BRUISING
Mild swelling or bruising may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
INFECTION
The risk of infection is low when the procedure is performed in a sterile and controlled clinical environment.
INSUFFICIENT SPERM EXTRACTION
Occasionally, the retrieved sperm quantity may be limited. Skilled fertility specialists aim to achieve maximum success in a single procedure.
SURGICAL SPERM RETRIEVAL PROCEDURES
Even when sperm are absent in the semen but continue to be produced inside the testes, minimally invasive methods like PESA, TESE, and MESA can successfully retrieve sperm for IVF or ICSI treatments. These procedures support men with both obstructive and non-obstructive infertility.
MALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT
Male infertility may result from obstructive azoospermia, non-obstructive azoospermia, congenital abnormalities, or previous surgical procedures like vasectomy. Depending on the cause, sperm can be retrieved from the testis, epididymis, or vas deferens for use in advanced fertility treatments. Specialists in Delhi use refined retrieval techniques to help couples move closer to parenthood.
TREATMENT AVAILABLE AT KICDelfinium, Delhi
At KICDelfinium, Delhi, we offer all major surgical sperm retrieval techniques with advanced technology and expert precision. Our fertility specialists provide personalised care, minimally invasive procedures, and comprehensive support to help men overcome infertility and improve their chances of successful conception.