Micro-TESE

What is the micro-TESE technique?

Micro-TESE is a small intervention, like a testicular biopsy, to recover spermatozoa from the testicle, with the aim of using them in Assisted Reproduction treatments and techniques. It is a microsurgical technique to identify which areas of the testicular tissue may contain more spermatozoa.

It is a technique that can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation, as indicated by the Urology specialist.

Micro-TESE is an alternative to open biopsies. Thanks to a surgical microscope, the vision is amplified and the inside of the tubules of the testicle can be seen with precision, selecting those that can be grasped, and the damage to the testicle is also reduced, compared to open biopsies. With a conventional biopsy, a lot of testicular tissue is removed, and it can affect the production of testosterone, one of the functions of the testicles.

Why is it performed?

Micro-TESE is used when no sperm are found in the patient’s ejaculate, i.e. when he suffers from azoospermia. While the TESE technique could be used in men with obstructive azoospermia, micro-TESE is more effective in finding sperm, even in a type of azoospermia called secretory azoospermia.

With the use of this technique, performed by a highly qualified specialist in Urology, up to 50% of patients will be able to identify isolated sperm-producing sites in the testes.

What does it consist of?

Micro-TESE consists of performing a testicular biopsy. A surgical microscope is used to locate exactly the areas of the testicle where sperm are likely to be found. In this way, the thickest tubules in the testicle can be seen in the greatest detail and the sperm sample can be selected with the least possible testicular damage.

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It is a technique that can be used even in patients who have previously undergone a testicular biopsy, since thanks to the micro-TESE it is possible to identify the dilated tubules, extract and recover the most suitable spermatozoa for use in Assisted Reproduction treatments.

As mentioned above, it is a microsurgical technique that can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation. The patient can leave once the anesthesia wears off.

Preparation for micro-TESE

No specific preparation is usually necessary for micro-TESE. In any case, the specialist will specify to the patient if he/she needs any analysis or specific test prior to the intervention.

Care after the operation

Once the patient has recovered from the anesthesia, he/she can go home.

Alternatives to this treatment

Micro-Tese is currently one of the most advanced and minimally invasive techniques available for sperm retrieval in cases of azoospermia.