TESA / PESA
Surgical Sperm Retrieval (TESA & PESA)
When sperm cannot be found in the ejaculate, we go directly to the source.
What is Surgical Sperm Retrieval (TESA & PESA)?
Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) and Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) are minimally invasive surgical procedures used to retrieve sperm directly from the testis or epididymis in men who have no sperm in their ejaculate (azoospermia) or who cannot produce a sample by ejaculation. Retrieved sperm are used in conjunction with ICSI to achieve fertilisation. At Ova IVF, these procedures are performed by experienced specialists under local anaesthesia or light sedation.
Who is this for?
- Men with obstructive azoospermia (blocked vas deferens or epididymis)
- Men with congenital absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD)
- Men with non-obstructive azoospermia (impaired sperm production)
- Men who have had vasectomy and reversal has failed or is not desired
- Men unable to ejaculate due to spinal cord injury or retrograde ejaculation
- Men requiring sperm retrieval on the day of IVF/ICSI
Key Benefits
Step-by-Step Procedure
A clear, transparent walkthrough of every stage of your TESA / PESA treatment at Ova IVF.
Pre-Procedure Assessment
Hormonal profile (FSH, LH, testosterone), scrotal ultrasound, and genetic testing (karyotype, Y-chromosome microdeletion) are performed to determine the likely cause of azoospermia and predict retrieval success.
Coordination with IVF Cycle
The surgical retrieval is timed to coincide with the female partner’s egg retrieval day, or sperm may be retrieved in advance and cryopreserved for use in a future ICSI cycle.
PESA (Epididymal Aspiration)
Under local anaesthesia, a fine needle is inserted percutaneously into the epididymis to aspirate fluid containing sperm. PESA is used for obstructive azoospermia and is quick and minimally invasive.
TESA (Testicular Aspiration)
Under local anaesthesia or sedation, a fine needle is inserted into the testicular tissue to aspirate seminiferous tubule fragments. The sample is immediately assessed by the embryologist for the presence of sperm.
Laboratory Processing
Retrieved tissue or fluid is processed in the embryology laboratory to isolate viable sperm. Sperm are used fresh for ICSI or cryopreserved for future use.
ICSI Fertilisation
Individual sperm retrieved by TESA or PESA are injected into mature eggs via ICSI. Even a small number of retrieved sperm can achieve successful fertilisation.
Recovery
Most men experience mild scrotal discomfort for 1–2 days and can return to normal activities within 48–72 hours. Ice packs and analgesics are recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between TESA and PESA?
PESA retrieves sperm from the epididymis (the tube behind the testis) and is used for obstructive azoospermia. TESA retrieves sperm directly from testicular tissue and is used when epididymal sperm are not available.
What if no sperm are found during TESA?
In non-obstructive azoospermia, sperm retrieval rates with standard TESA are lower. Micro-TESE (microsurgical testicular sperm extraction) may be recommended as a more thorough alternative.
Is TESA/PESA painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia or sedation. Post-procedure discomfort is usually mild and well-controlled with standard analgesics.
Ready to Begin Your TESA / PESA Journey?
Our specialists are here to guide you. Call us or book a consultation today.