In cases where no sperm are detected in the ejaculate (azoospermia), it is possible to search for and obtain sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis.
The procedure is performed by a specialized urologist, using gentle surgical techniques.

The collection can be done:

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) — aspiration of a small amount of tissue

• By testicular biopsy — taking a tissue sample for laboratory evaluation

The sample is examined in the laboratory to identify any sperm that can be used for fertilization.

Types of Azoospermia

Azoospermia is divided into two main categories, depending on the cause:

1. Obstructive Azoospermia

Sperm production in the testicles is normal, but there is obstruction in the ducts that transport them.
In this case, retrieval from the epididymis or testicle provides sperm that can be used for treatment.

2. Non-Obstructive Azoospermia

The problem lies in the production of sperm, which may be reduced or non-existent. However, in many men there are small areas in the testicles where sperm is still produced — and these can be identified with a testicular biopsy, allowing the sperm to be used for fertilization.

Fertilization & Storage

The sperm obtained with these techniques usually have low motility.
For this reason, fertilization is performed exclusively by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a sperm is directly introduced into the egg.

Additional:

• The tissue collected can be frozen

• Thus, no new surgery is required in the next treatment cycle