MicroTESE procedure is the surgical extraction of sperm from the testicles (testes) of men who have no sperm cells in their semen. The sperm obtained through MicroTESE can be used in the ICSI procedure in IVF treatments to achieve healthy pregnancies. The ICSI method was first implemented by Palermo in 1992, resulting in the first pregnancy. MicroTESE, on the other hand, was first described by Schlegel in 1999.
Who is MicroTESE Applied to?
MicroTESE is performed when there is an inability to ejaculate semen, or when there are no sperm cells in the semen (azoospermia), or when very few sperm cells are present (cryptozoospermia). MicroTESE is applied to men who do not have sperm cells in their semen due to blockages in the sperm ducts, absence of sperm ducts from birth, hormonal problems, genetic diseases, or past infections.
Is there a test to predict sperm retrieval with MicroTESE?
Currently, there are no clinical parameters that definitively indicate the presence of sperm in the testes before TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) in non-obstructive azoospermia patients. However, various parameters have been developed and are still being developed to predict the likelihood of finding sperm in TESE by examining some clinical and laboratory data before the TESE operation.
How is MicroTESE Performed?
In recent years, MicroTESE (Microdissection Testicular Sperm Extraction) has emerged as the gold standard method. The MicroTESE procedure is performed under a microscope at 15-25 magnifications, preserving the vascular structure while minimizing tissue loss. The surgery can be performed under general or regional anesthesia. A 4 cm incision is made in the midline of the scrotum to reach the testicles, which are then brought out. Small pieces are taken from areas with a high probability of finding sperm under the microscope. If sperm cannot be found, the procedure continues on the other testicle. The incision made on the testicle is closed with self-dissolving stitches.
MicroTESE yields sperm in 40-50% of men with non-obstructive azoospermia, regardless of age and hormonal profile. If sperm cannot be found, there is a chance of obtaining sperm in a planned surgery later on. This procedure is a surgical method used to solve infertility problems. MicroTESE increases the chance of natural conception for couples and is an effective method for solving infertility issues.
Who performs the MicroTESE procedure?
The MicroTESE procedure should be performed by a urology specialist. The urologist works carefully under a microscope to identify the problem in the testicles and find an appropriate solution. This procedure is a significant step that can change the lives of couples, and when performed correctly, it can yield successful results.
Does MicroTESE harm the testicles?
There are some risks/complications associated with this surgery:
Bleeding and hematoma (blood accumulation) in the scrotum may occur. Infection and pain may develop after the operation. Hydrocele (accumulation of fluid around the testis) may develop. A decrease in testosterone (male hormone) levels may be observed 3-6 months after the operation. However, this condition is temporary.
What should be considered after MicroTESE?
After TESE, patients should avoid riding bicycles, motorcycles, and horses. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for the first 3 months; otherwise, painful and bloody semen may occur. Patients should carefully follow the medication prescribed by the doctor and adhere to sexual abstinence.
MicroTESE is a surgical procedure performed to obtain sperm from the testicles of men under a microscope. This procedure is carried out for individuals seeking to have children. The necessity of the procedure is related to the patient’s desire and is performed solely to assist with reproduction.
The MicroTESE procedure is conducted under a microscope, and the surgeon uses a fine microsurgical instrument to facilitate the retrieval of sperm from the testicles. MicroTESE surgery can be performed under general or regional anesthesia.
MicroTESE sperm retrieval method is applied to men who do not have sperm cells in their semen due to blockages in the sperm ducts, absence of sperm ducts from birth, hormonal problems, genetic diseases, or past infections. The sperm cells obtained are used in the IVF procedure, and the surplus is preserved by freezing.
By filling out the form, you can make an appointment with Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist Prof. Dr. Ebru Çöğendez.
IVF treatment prices usually include factors such as tests, medications, laboratory procedures, doctor examinations, etc. during the treatment process.
IVF treatment is applied to couples who are determined by taking certain factors into consideration.
Factors such as age, health status, choice of treatment center and treatment process can affect success rates.
The stages of IVF treatment usually consist of four main stages. The first stage is the preparation stage.
As with any medical intervention, IVF treatment has potential risks and possible complications.
