TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction)

TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) is a surgical procedure used to retrieve sperm directly from testicular tissue. It is considered when semen analysis shows no sperm (azoospermia) and sperm retrieval is needed to support assisted reproduction, most commonly IVF with ICSI.

Fertility / tese

TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction)

Surgical sperm retrieval when sperm are not present in semen

What TESE does

During TESE, a small amount of testicular tissue is removed and examined in the laboratory to identify sperm. When sperm are found, they can be used fresh on the day of treatment or frozen for future use when appropriate.

Who may be advised to consider TESE

TESE may be recommended when sperm cannot be obtained from the ejaculate and the clinical evaluation suggests sperm may still be present within the testicle.

• Azoospermia on semen analysis
• Suspected obstructive azoospermia when other retrieval methods are not suitable
• Selected non-obstructive azoospermia cases (case-dependent)
• Prior unsuccessful sperm retrieval attempts
• When IVF/ICSI is planned and testicular sperm retrieval is needed

Step-by-step process

Pre-procedure assessment

We review semen analysis, hormone testing, examination findings, and any imaging to select the most appropriate sperm retrieval approach.

Procedure planning

We discuss anaesthesia options, timing with IVF when relevant, and what to expect during recovery.

Tissue extraction

A small incision is made and a small piece of tissue is removed. The laboratory team examines the tissue to locate sperm.

Aftercare and results

You receive aftercare instructions and we review the laboratory outcome, including whether sperm were retrieved and whether freezing was possible.

Benefits & success factors

• Can retrieve sperm when none are present in ejaculate
• Useful in obstructive and selected non-obstructive azoospermia
• Supports IVF/ICSI treatment planning
• May allow sperm cryopreservation if adequate sperm are found

Risks or considerations

• Post-procedure pain, swelling, or bruising can occur
• Small risk of bleeding or infection
• Sperm retrieval is not guaranteed, especially in non-obstructive azoospermia
• Recovery and restrictions may be longer than needle-based techniques

Why choose Enjab Medical Centre

We provide careful pre-procedure evaluation, coordinated lab support, and clear counselling so you understand the benefits, limits, and alternatives.

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Appropriate selection of TESE vs. other retrieval options

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Coordination with embryology/laboratory pathways

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Clear aftercare guidance and follow-up planning

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UAE-compliant standards and patient privacy

FAQs

What is the difference between TESE and micro-TESE?

TESE removes small tissue samples, while micro-TESE uses an operating microscope to identify areas more likely to contain sperm, often used in non-obstructive azoospermia.

Is TESE done under general anaesthesia?

Anaesthesia varies by case and setting. Some TESE procedures use local anaesthesia with sedation, while others use general anaesthesia. We will discuss the safest option for you.

Can sperm be frozen after TESE?

If viable sperm are found in adequate quantity, freezing may be possible. This depends on the retrieval outcome and lab assessment.

How long is recovery?

Most patients have mild to moderate discomfort for a few days. We provide advice on wound care, activity restrictions, and when to resume normal activities.

What if no sperm are found?

If sperm are not found, we discuss the implications and next options, which may include micro-TESE evaluation or other appropriate pathways, depending on your preferences and clinical situation.

When is TESE coordinated with IVF?

When using fresh sperm, TESE may be scheduled around the partner’s egg retrieval. In some cases, sperm retrieval and freezing may be performed in advance.