Description

Surgical Sperm Retrieval (SSR) Surgical Sperm Retrieval (SSR) is a procedure used to collect sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis in men who have little or no sperm in their ejaculate. This method is often used in combination with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) during an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycle. Who Needs Surgical Sperm Retrieval? SSR is used for men with: Azoospermia (absence of sperm in semen) Obstructive Azoospermia – Sperm production is normal, but a blockage prevents sperm release (e.g., due to vasectomy or congenital absence of vas deferens). Non-Obstructive Azoospermia – The testicles produce very low sperm counts, often due to hormonal, genetic, or testicular failure issues. Ejaculatory Disorders (e.g., spinal cord injury, retrograde ejaculation) Failed Ejaculated Sperm Collection in prior IVF/ICSI cycles Types of Surgical Sperm Retrieval Procedures PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) A needle is used to extract sperm from the epididymis (tube behind the testicles). Best for obstructive azoospermia. Minimally invasive, no incision needed. TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) A fine needle is inserted into the testicle to extract sperm. Performed under local anesthesia. TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) A small biopsy of testicular tissue is taken to find sperm. Used when TESA or PESA do not yield sperm. Done under local or general anesthesia. Micro-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction) A high-powered surgical microscope helps locate sperm-producing areas. Best for non-obstructive azoospermia. Higher sperm retrieval rates but requires general anesthesia. What Happens After Sperm Retrieval? The extracted sperm is analyzed and either used immediately for IVF/ICSI or frozen for future use. If no sperm is found, donor sperm or alternative fertility options may be discussed. Success Rates of SSR Obstructive Azoospermia – ~90% sperm retrieval success. Non-Obstructive Azoospermia – 30–60% (higher with Micro-TESE). ICSI with Retrieved Sperm – Similar success rates as with ejaculated sperm. Benefits & Risks ✔ Allows biological fatherhood in cases of severe male infertility. ✔ Minimally invasive options available. ✔ Sperm can be frozen for future IVF attempts. ❌ May require multiple attempts if no sperm is found. ❌ Surgical risks – infection, bleeding, discomfort. Would you like details on recovery, costs, or alternative options? 😊