Surgical sperm retrieval

Some men do not produce sperm in their semen (azoospermia). This could be due to:

• An illness in earlier life (i.e. mumps)
• Having had a vasectomy (male sterilisation)
• An injury to the groin
• A genetic disorder
• Obstruction

In some cases we can surgically retrieve sperm.

Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) - PESA is usually performed under general anaesthetic and takes about 20 minutes. A fine needle is inserted into the epididymis (area that stores maturing sperm) and fluid is removed using mild suction. The fluid is inspected under a microscope to confirm the presence and quality of sperm.

Micro-epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA) - MESA is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Instead of a needle a small incision (cut) is made in the scrotum and fluid is removed. The fluid is inspected under a microscope to confirm the presence and quality of sperm. A sample (biopsy) may also be taken and sent to a laboratory to confirm evidence of sperm production.

Success rates with SSR vary according to the procedure used. Please discuss any questions or concerns you might have with your consultant or a fertility nurse.