Micro TESE

Micro TESE (Micro Testicular Sperm Extraction) is an advanced microsurgical procedure used to treat male infertility, particularly in men diagnosed with azoospermia, a condition in which no sperm is present in the ejaculate.
With the help of a high-powered operating microscope, surgeons can identify and extract viable sperm directly from the testicular tissue. Retrieved sperm can then be used in assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF with ICSI, giving couples the opportunity to achieve biological parenthood.

What Is Micro TESE?

Micro Testicular Sperm Extraction, commonly known as Micro-TESE, is a highly specialized microsurgical sperm retrieval technique.
During the procedure, an operating microscope provides a magnified, detailed view of the testicular tissue. This allows the surgeon to locate tiny areas of active sperm production that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
A small incision is made in the testicle to examine the seminiferous tubules, the structures responsible for sperm production. Once viable sperm is identified, it is carefully extracted and later used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, ICSI, during an IVF cycle. This method significantly increases the chances of successful fertilization.

Azoospermia Treatment with Micro-TESE

Azoospermia can be emotionally challenging for many men. It may be caused by:
Genetic abnormalities

• Hormonal imbalances
• Previous infections or medical treatments
• Obstruction in the reproductive tract

Micro TESE is especially effective for non-obstructive azoospermia, where sperm production is severely impaired rather than blocked.
By examining testicular tissue under high magnification, surgeons can locate rare sperm-producing areas and retrieve sperm directly. Compared to conventional techniques, Micro TESE offers higher sperm retrieval rates and improved outcomes for men with severe testicular failure.
For many patients, this procedure provides the possibility of achieving biological fatherhood when other methods have failed.

Micro TESE vs Standard TESE

Although both procedures aim to retrieve sperm from the testicles, there are significant differences between standard TESE and Micro TESE.

Standard TESE

• Performed without microscopic magnification
• May require multiple random tissue samples
• Higher risk of missing sperm-producing areas
• Greater tissue damage

Micro TESE

• Performed under an operating microscope
• Enables targeted, precise sperm retrieval
• Requires smaller, focused incisions
• Causes less tissue damage
• Shortens recovery time
• Provides higher sperm retrieval success rates

Micro TESE is considered the gold standard for men with severe non-obstructive azoospermia.

How Long Does Micro TESE Take?

Micro TESE is performed under general anesthesia in a fully equipped operating room.

• The procedure typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours.
• Patients must fast for at least 6 hours before surgery.
• After the procedure, patients are monitored for 2 to 4 hours before being discharged.

Most patients return home the same day.

Recovery After Micro TESE

Recovery is generally smooth when post-operative care instructions are followed carefully.

What to Expect After Surgery

• Mild swelling and discomfort in the testicular area
• Temporary sensitivity
• Minimal bleeding in rare cases

Pain is usually managed with prescribed medication and cold compresses. Wearing supportive, tight-fitting underwear or a suspensory garment helps reduce movement and improve comfort.

Post-Operative Care Guidelines

• Driving is not recommended on the day of surgery
• Heavy lifting and intense physical activity should be avoided for 10 to 14 days
• Sexual intercourse should be avoided for approximately 10 days
• Dressings should be changed after 48 hours
• Showering is allowed starting on the third day
• Dissolvable sutures are used and disappear within about one week

Most patients can resume light daily activities within a few days. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks. Follow-up appointments allow the physician to assess healing and discuss the next steps in fertility treatment.