Surgical sperm retrieval

Surgical sperm retrieval refers to a group of procedures used to collect sperm directly from the male reproductive tract when sperm cannot be obtained by ejaculation, most often for azoospermia. Techniques include percutaneous or microsurgical aspiration from the epididymis (PESA, MESA) and needle or open extraction from testicular tissue (TESA, TESE), with the choice depending on whether the cause is obstructive or non-obstructive. In obstructive azoospermia, sperm retrieval is usually successful because sperm production is normal. In non-obstructive azoospermia, retrieval is less certain because sperm production itself is impaired, and a diagnosis of azoospermia does not automatically mean sperm will be found; success depends on the underlying cause and can be improved by more extensive techniques such as microdissection TESE. Sperm retrieved surgically is used with ICSI, and any sperm not used immediately can often be frozen for future cycles.

Also known as: PESA, MESA, TESA, TESE, testicular sperm extraction

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.