Unlike other sperm retrieval techniques, MESA does not require an operating microscope or highly experienced microsurgeons. The procedure is less invasive and is used in men with obstructive azoospermia, who produce sperm but cannot release them into the semen.
Many urology practices use ABNs to collect payment for MESA and TESA procedures. However, be aware that some payers do not recognize S codes.
It is a procedure
Testicular sperm aspiration is a procedure used to extract sperm from the testicles. The sperm is then used for assisted reproductive procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Gen 5 Fertility Center performs TESA under local anesthesia and takes about 10 minutes. Afterwards, the sample goes for testing. If the sample is positive, it will be used for IVF.
During TESA, a thin needle is inserted into the testicles or epididymis to aspirate fluid and tissue. The aspirated fluid or tissue is then examined under a microscope for the presence of sperm. TESA can be performed by an andrologist or IVF specialist.
PESA and TESA are a useful diagnostic tool for men with azoospermia who cannot produce or release sperm through ejaculation due to blockage of the vas deferens or epididymis. Surgically retrieving sperm from the epididymis or testis using aspiration techniques can help to identify what is causing the azoospermia and may be an effective treatment for azoospermia.
It is painful
TESA, or Testicular Sperm Aspiration is a non-surgical procedure used to retrieve sperm from the testicles. It’s done under a nerve block in the clinic or hospital and requires a needle to be inserted into the skin and testis to draw out sperm. The sperm can then be collected and stored for future use. It’s also less painful than PESA which is a surgical procedure to remove sperm from the epididymis. It’s usually done for obstructive Azoospermia.
It is invasive
Men who are experiencing infertility may have little to no motile sperm in their ejaculate or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. In such cases, a sperm extraction procedure can help. This can be done in many different ways, including MESA and PESA. These procedures involve removing sperm from the testicles or epididymal tubes. They are generally performed under local anesthesia. In these methods, a needle is inserted into the testis or epididymis and sperm are aspirated.
Some urologists prefer MESA over TESA, as it doesn’t require a surgical cut. It also requires less training for urologists to perform. However, it’s important to be cautious about complication rates. These complications include hematoma and subcapsular ecchymoses. These complications can be prevented by careful hemostasis, which is especially crucial when using the MESA technique.
While a sperm extraction procedure can be painful and invasive, it’s very effective in improving fertility. The Arizona Center for Fertility Studies recommends that all men undergoing MESA or PESA discuss having their sperm cryopreserved.Non-motile sperm can still be used in In-Vitro Fertilization (ICSI) with good fertilization and pregnancy rates.tesa mesa