If you’re living with a condition such as azoospermia, but still want to have children, you may benefit from a treatment such as testicular sperm extraction (TESE). At Los Angeles Infertility and Prostatitis, expert physician Scott Zeitlin, MD, proudly offers traditional TESE, minimally invasive TESE, and microsurgical TESE with dedicated embryology to enhance sperm retrieval rates. To see if you’re a candidate, call one of the three Los Angeles area offices in Century City, Santa Monica, or Tarzana, California.
Testicular sperm extraction (TESE), also known as sperm harvesting, is a surgical procedure that involves Dr. Zeitlin retrieving sperm from the testis or epididymis. The type of TESE you’ll most benefit from depends on the type of problems you’re experiencing. For example, if you have a blockage you might benefit from a simple aspiration procedure. However, if you have a sperm production problem or low testosterone, more extensive testing may be necessary.
At Los Angeles Infertility and Prostatitis, Dr. Zeitlin offers an array of sperm harvesting options, including:
During a TESE procedure, Dr. Zeitlin makes a small incision in the testis and examines your tubules for the presence of sperm. Whenever possible, Dr. Zeitlin schedules TESE in coordination with your partner’s egg retrieval. He can perform the procedure under general anesthesia or in-office with local anesthesia. After treatment, you have the option to freeze your sperm for future in vitro fertilization treatments (IVF).
Microdissection TESE, or MicroTESE, is a procedure recommended for men who have a sperm production problem, such as azoospermia. You might also benefit from MicroTESE if you have low testosterone. Dr. Zeitlin performs MicroTESE under general anesthesia using an operating microscope. He coordinates MicroTESE with your partner’s egg retrieval and typically schedules the procedure a day prior. This allows for reach partner to be present during the other’s operation. Compared to traditional TESE treatment, MicroTESE requires the removal of less testicular tissue and provides better overall results.
The type of sperm harvesting treatment you’ll most benefit from depends on the underlying cause of your fertility problems. If you produce normal amounts of sperm but have a blockage, a simple procedure such as aspiration may be enough to start a family. However, if you have low testosterone or another more complex problem, Dr. Zeitlin typically recommends MicroTESE. MicroTESE increases the chances of finding viable sperm and also ensures a quicker recovery time.
Following an exam and review of your medical history, Dr. Zeitlin develops a treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.
If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, sperm harvesting techniques such as TESE and MicroTESE are worth considering. Don’t let male infertility problems prevent you from starting the family of your dreams. To make your appointment, call the office nearest you today.
