Micro-TESE, or Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction, is a specialized medical procedure used in the field of reproductive medicine to address male infertility, specifically in cases of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). NOA is a condition where a man has no sperm in his ejaculate due to impaired or nonexistent sperm production in the testes.
Overview of Micro-TESE:
Micro-TESE is an advanced form of the conventional testicular sperm extraction (TESE) procedure. It involves a highly detailed and meticulous process of searching for sperm within the testicular tissue under a high-powered operating microscope. This approach significantly improves the chances of finding viable sperm in men with very low sperm production.
Procedure Details:
Performed under general anesthesia, Micro-TESE involves making a small incision in the scrotum to expose the testis. The surgeon then uses a high-powered microscope to examine the testicular tissue, identifying areas that are most likely to contain sperm. Tiny samples of tissue from these areas are extracted and immediately analyzed by an embryologist for the presence of sperm. The advantage of using a microscope is that it allows for the identification and preservation of blood vessels, reducing vascular injury and minimizing tissue damage.
Applications in Assisted Reproduction:
The sperm retrieved through Micro-TESE, if found, are used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. Micro-TESE combined with ICSI can provide men with NOA an opportunity to father biological children.
Advantages of Micro-TESE:
The main benefit of Micro-TESE over traditional TESE is its higher success rate in retrieving sperm in cases of NOA. The use of a microscope allows for a more targeted approach, reducing the amount of testicular tissue that needs to be removed and thereby minimizing trauma to the testes.
Risks and Considerations:
Micro-TESE, like any surgical procedure, carries risks such as infection, bleeding, or pain. Postoperative recovery may involve discomfort in the scrotal area, and there’s a potential for testicular atrophy or hormonal imbalances in rare cases. Additionally, there is always the possibility that no sperm will be found during the procedure, especially in men with severe testicular impairment.
Conclusion: Micro-TESE represents a significant advancement in the treatment of male infertility, particularly for men with non-obstructive azoospermia. It demonstrates how refined surgical techniques, combined with advances in reproductive technology, can offer new hope to couples facing severe male infertility. The decision to undergo Micro-TESE should be made after a thorough consultation with a fertility specialist, who can provide detailed information about the likelihood of success, potential risks, and long-term implications of the procedure.
