The testicular biopsy Testicular biopsy is a valuable technique for treating azoospermia, which refers to the absence of sperm in ejaculated semen. This procedure is used to locate and extract sperm directly from the testicles when they are not present in the semen. The success of testicular biopsy depends largely on the underlying cause of azoospermia, the technique used, and the experience of the medical team.
There are two main types of azoospermia:
- Obstructive Azoospermia: Sperm are produced in the testicles, but do not reach the semen due to an obstruction.
- Non-obstructive azoospermia: The problem lies in the production of sperm in the testicles themselves.
The testicular biopsy To extract sperm is performed in cases of azoospermia where it is necessary to evaluate and extract sperm directly from the testicles. These sperm are generally used in assisted reproduction techniques, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Techniques used
- Percutaneous Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA): Uses a fine needle to extract sperm directly from the testicle.
- Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE): This involves a small incision in the testicle to remove tissue and examine it under a microscope.
- TESE microdissection (micro-TESE): Uses a surgical microscope to identify and remove areas of tissue most likely to contain sperm.
Chances of success
The probability of success of testicular biopsy varies depending on the type of azoospermia:
- Obstructive Azoospermia: It has a high success rate, between 90% and 100%, since the testicles produce sperm, but these do not reach the semen due to an obstruction.
- Non-obstructive azoospermia: It has lower success rates, between 30% and 70%, depending on the technique used and the specific cause. micro-TESE It is preferred in these cases as it offers a higher success rate in locating focal areas of spermatogenesis.
The In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the most common treatment when sperm are obtained by testicular biopsy.
Procedure steps:
- Obtaining sperm: By testicular biopsy.
- Ovarian stimulation: The female partner receives hormonal treatment to stimulate egg production.
- Egg retrievalMature eggs are removed from the ovaries.
- : A sperm is injected directly into each of the eggs.
- Embryo culture: Embryos are grown in the laboratory.
- Embryo transfer: One or more embryos are introduced into the uterus to start a pregnancy.
The success of a pregnancy with testicular biopsy depends on several factors:
- Quality and quantity of sperm: The strength and health of the sperm obtained is crucial. Although they are usually less mature than those ejaculated naturally, they are usually effective in fertilization through ICSI.
- Age and women’s reproductive health:The youth and good health of the woman are fundamental factors for the success of IVF.
- The medical center: The experience of the medical team, together with the technology and facilities of the clinic, play a vital role in the success of the procedure. It is an aspect especially valued by those who have undergone a in vitro fertilization in Madrid.
In relation to the in vitro fertilization with testicular biopsy pricethe cost varies depending on the clinic and additional services. In Spain, this treatment ranges between €3,500 and €7,000, to which is added the cost of the testicular biopsy, either TESE either micro-TESEranging from €1,000 to €2,500.
Testicular biopsy is an essential procedure for men with azoospermia who wish to father children. With the right technology and an experienced medical team, the chances of success are comparable to those of standard IVF procedures. However, success depends largely on factors such as sperm quality, the health of the woman, and the clinic where the treatment is performed.
Lastly, but of great importance, the importance of the medical team, facilities and technology that the place where the testicular biopsy and the IVF-ICSI operations are going to be performed should be mentioned. The medical community and people who have already undergone a in vitro fertilization in Madridplace special emphasis on this aspect.
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