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Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration for obstructive azoospermia
P Shrivastav1, P Nadkarni, S Wensvoort
1Dubai Gynaecology and Fertility Centre, United Arab Emirates.
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration offers a simpler alternative for obstructive azoospermia. This method successfully yielded pregnancies using assisted reproductive technologies.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Urology
Background:
- Obstructive azoospermia presents challenges for male fertility.
- Surgical bypass is not always feasible or successful for these patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) as an alternative to microscopic epididymal sperm aspiration (MESA).
- To assess the efficacy of PESA in achieving pregnancies in patients with obstructive azoospermia.
Main Methods:
- Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) was performed.
- Sperm preparation techniques were employed to minimize blood contamination.
- Retrieved spermatozoa were used for assisted conception procedures.
Main Results:
- PESA was found to be simpler and more acceptable than MESA.
- Despite inevitable blood contamination, careful sperm preparation reduced its impact.
- Three pregnancies were achieved in seven couples undergoing treatment.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration is a viable and effective alternative for patients with obstructive azoospermia.
- Assisted reproductive technologies, including gamete intra-Fallopian transfer and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, can utilize sperm retrieved via PESA.
- The technique demonstrated a successful pregnancy rate, including a twin delivery.