TESE and Testicular Biopsy

TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) and testicular biopsy are surgical procedures used in male infertility to assess sperm production and, when necessary, retrieve sperm directly from testicular tissue. These methods are especially important for men who have no sperm in their ejaculate (azoospermia), both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

What is TESE?

TESE involves taking small samples of testicular tissue from men with azoospermia and examining them under a microscope to search for sperm cells.
If viable sperm are found, they can be used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment.

TESE is particularly indicated in:

• Non-obstructive azoospermia, where sperm production is impaired rather than blocked.

• Cases where sperm production is very low.

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or mild sedation, and patients can typically go home the same day.

What is a Testicular Biopsy?

A testicular biopsy can serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

• Diagnostic biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to determine the cause of impaired sperm production.

• Pathological examination can evaluate:

  • Whether sperm production is present in the testis.

  • At what stage sperm development is interrupted.

  • Whether there are hormonal or genetic abnormalities in the tissue.

Micro TESE (Microscopic TESE)

Micro TESE is an advanced TESE technique performed under a high-magnification surgical microscope.

• Only areas with active sperm production are targeted.

• This minimizes unnecessary tissue loss.

• Micro TESE has a higher success rate and less tissue damage compared to conventional TESE.

Post-Procedure Period

• Mild pain, swelling, or bruising may occur for a few days.

• 2–3 days of rest is recommended.

• Avoid strenuous activity and sexual intercourse during the first week.

• Painkillers and antibiotics may be prescribed if needed.

• Retrieved tissue is examined in the laboratory, and viable sperm can be frozen for future use.

Who is a Candidate?

• Men with azoospermia (no sperm in ejaculate).

• Men with genetic, hormonal, or obstructive causes of impaired sperm production.

• Couples with previous failed IVF attempts.

Success Rate

• Micro TESE yields sperm in approximately 40–60% of cases.

• Success depends on sperm production in the testicular tissue, hormone levels, and any prior surgical interventions.

TESE and Testicular Biopsy at Our Clinic

At our clinic, TESE, Micro TESE, and testicular biopsy are performed using modern surgical techniques and microscopic visualization systems.
The goal is to retrieve healthy sperm directly from the testis, increase the chances of natural conception through assisted reproduction, and provide a minimally invasive diagnostic approach.

These procedures are crucial both for reproductive health and for preserving testicular function