Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA) and Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE)

If suitable sperm for fertilization are not found in the ejaculate, they can be obtained using the MESA and TESE microsurgical methods. Both methods are carried out by a specialized doctor, typically an andrologist, under general anesthesia. In the MESA method, sperm are drawn into a syringe with a needle from the epididymis. In the TESE method, sperm are extracted from the seminal ducts found in the testes. The acquired sperm is used for fertilization or is frozen for later use.