Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration

Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) is a medical procedure used to extract sperm directly from the epididymis, a tube located at the back of the testicles where sperm is stored and matured. This procedure is often used when there is a blockage preventing sperm from being ejaculated or in cases of vasectomy.

Procedure

PESA is typically performed under local anesthesia. A small needle is inserted through the skin of the scrotum and into the epididymis. Sperm is then aspirated, or drawn out, through the needle. The procedure is usually quick and patients can often return home the same day.

Indications

PESA is indicated for men who have obstructive azoospermia, a condition where there is no sperm in the ejaculate due to a blockage. This can be caused by a previous vasectomy, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or scarring from infection or surgery. It may also be used in cases where the man has difficulty producing a semen sample on the day of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with PESA. These may include pain, swelling, or bruising at the site of the needle insertion. There is also a risk of infection or damage to the epididymis or testicles.

Success Rates

The success rate of PESA varies depending on the cause of the male's infertility. In general, the procedure has a high success rate in retrieving sperm suitable for use in IVF or ICSI.

See Also

• Testicular sperm extraction
• Microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration
• Sperm retrieval
• In vitro fertilization
• Intracytoplasmic sperm injection

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