Microsurgical Varicocelectomy
A microscope-assisted operation that closes enlarged scrotal veins while protecting nearby arteries and lymphatic vessels.
Andrology
TESA / PESA Sperm Retrieval
Needle-based techniques to retrieve sperm from the testicle or epididymis for selected cases of severe male-factor infertility.
- Dr. Anand Arumugam, MBBS, MS, M.Ch
- Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road
Procedure overview
What is TESA / PESA Sperm Retrieval?
PESA places a fine needle into the epididymis, often when sperm production is present but a blockage prevents ejaculation. TESA uses a needle through the scrotal skin to aspirate tissue or fluid directly from the testicle.
Important. This page provides general education. Your diagnosis, treatment choice and recovery plan must be confirmed in consultation.
When it may be considered
Clinical needs come before technique.
- 01Obstructive azoospermia
- 02Congenital absence of the vas deferens
- 03Previous vasectomy
- 04No viable sperm in the ejaculate after specialist assessment
Diagnosis & preparation
What happens before a decision.
Assessment may include
- A focused history and physical examination
- Urine and blood tests relevant to the condition
- Ultrasound, X-ray, CT, MRI or other appropriate imaging
- Anaesthesia and general-health assessment when surgery is planned
Specific tests vary. Bring existing reports so unnecessary repetition can be avoided where possible.
Potential benefits
Why this option may be discussed.
Minimally invasive sperm retrieval
Can be coordinated with fertility treatment
Targets epididymal or testicular sperm sources
Personalised choice based on the cause of azoospermia
All procedures have potential risks and may not achieve the same result for every patient. Alternatives, risks and expected outcomes should be discussed personally.
Recovery & follow-up
Plan the return to everyday life.
Local tenderness or bruising can occur. The fertility and urology teams will explain anaesthesia, specimen handling, recovery and how the retrieval aligns with the partner’s treatment cycle.
Contact your care team urgently if advised warning signs occur
These may include fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty or inability to pass urine. Follow the discharge instructions given to you.
Procedure FAQs
Questions patients commonly ask.
How do I know whether TESA / PESA Sperm Retrieval is right for me?
Suitability depends on your diagnosis, test results, general health and treatment goals. A consultation is needed to compare this procedure with observation, medicine or other procedural options.
What should I bring to the consultation?
Bring relevant imaging, laboratory reports, discharge summaries, a medicine and allergy list, and details of previous surgery or treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies by procedure and patient. Dr. Anand and the hospital team will explain the expected stay, activity limits, medicines, follow-up and warning signs for your individual plan.
Related procedures
More in andrology.
No-Scalpel Vasectomy
A permanent contraception procedure that reaches the vas deferens through a tiny puncture rather than a conventional scalpel incision.
Take the next step
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