Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, and in some cases, male factor infertility—particularly azoospermia (absence of sperm in ejaculate)—is the underlying cause. The good news is that medical advancements have made it possible for many men with azoospermia to father biological children through Surgical Sperm Retrieval (SSR) combined with techniques like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
At leading fertility centers such as SCI IVF Hospital, specialized techniques help retrieve sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis, making parenthood possible even when natural sperm production or ejaculation is compromised.
In this detailed blog, we will discuss who can benefit from surgical sperm retrieval, the different techniques used, success rates, costs, and why choosing the right fertility center matters.
Who Can Benefit from Surgical Sperm Retrieval?
Surgical sperm retrieval is primarily for men who have azoospermia, caused by either:
✅ Obstructive Azoospermia – When sperm production in the testicles is normal, but there is a blockage preventing sperm from entering the ejaculate. Common causes include:
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Vasectomy or previous scrotal surgery
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Congenital absence of the vas deferens (the tube carrying sperm)
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Damage from infections or injuries
✅ Non-Obstructive Azoospermia (NOA) – When sperm production in the testicles is very low or absent due to hormonal, genetic, or testicular conditions.
Men who have had a vasectomy, suffer from testicular trauma, or were born with reproductive tract abnormalities can also consider SSR as a viable treatment option.
How Does Surgical Sperm Retrieval Work?
The process involves retrieving sperm directly from the male reproductive system. The retrieved sperm is then used for ICSI, where a single healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg to achieve fertilization.
The type of technique chosen depends on:
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Whether the issue is obstructive or non-obstructive
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The site of retrieval (testicles or epididymis)
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Previous surgical history
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The fertility expert’s recommendation after diagnostic tests
At SCI IVF Hospital, fertility specialists carefully evaluate each patient’s condition and recommend the safest and most effective method.
Types of Surgical Sperm Retrieval Techniques
Here are the most commonly used techniques, explained in simple terms:
1. PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
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A minimally invasive method done under local anesthesia
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A fine needle is inserted into the epididymis through the scrotum to aspirate sperm
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Quick and almost painless (completed in 15–20 minutes)
2. MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)
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Performed under a surgical microscope
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Allows the extraction of high-quality sperm directly from the epididymal tubules
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Preferred when large quantities of sperm are required for freezing and future use
3. TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration)
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Used when no sperm is found in the epididymis
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A fine needle is inserted directly into the testicle to aspirate tissue, which is then examined for sperm
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A simple outpatient procedure
4. TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction / Biopsy)
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Involves making a small incision in the testicle to extract tissue for sperm retrieval
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Typically used when aspiration techniques fail
5. Micro-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction)
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The most advanced technique for men with non-obstructive azoospermia
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Performed under high-powered microscopy to identify viable sperm-producing tubules
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Offers the highest success rates when other methods fail
Success Rates – What to Expect?
Success rates depend on the underlying cause of azoospermia, the technique used, and the expertise of the surgeon.
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Obstructive azoospermia: More than 90% success rate in retrieving sperm
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Non-obstructive azoospermia: Around 40–50% success rate with techniques like Micro-TESE
It’s important to note that even a small number of retrieved sperm can be used for fertilization with ICSI, giving couples a strong chance of achieving pregnancy.
Cost of Surgical Sperm Retrieval
The cost of SSR varies depending on the technique used and the center performing the procedure.
On average:
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PESA or TESA: More affordable, ranging between ₹70,000 – ₹1,20,000 in India
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MESA or TESE: Slightly higher due to the need for surgical expertise
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Micro-TESE: The most expensive but highly effective for NOA cases
According to global data, the average cost per live birth after SSR and ICSI can be around $70,000–$80,000 internationally. However, in India, especially at reputed centers like SCI IVF Hospital, costs are significantly lower while maintaining world-class standards.
Why Choose SCI IVF Hospital for Surgical Sperm Retrieval?
✔ Expertise in Male Infertility Treatments – The hospital is known for handling complex male infertility cases with high success rates.
✔ Advanced Microsurgical Techniques – Use of Micro-TESE and other cutting-edge procedures to maximize sperm retrieval chances.
✔ Comprehensive Fertility Care – Complete diagnostic, surgical, and ICSI services under one roof.
✔ Affordable and Ethical Treatment – Transparent pricing with world-class care standards.
Recovery and Aftercare
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Most procedures are done under local anesthesia, with minimal discomfort.
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Men can usually resume light activities within a day or two.
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Post-procedure swelling or mild pain is temporary and manageable with medication.
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Fertility experts monitor recovery and provide guidance for the ICSI process.
Final Thoughts
Surgical sperm retrieval is a life-changing procedure for men struggling with azoospermia. Techniques like PESA, TESA, TESE, and Micro-TESE offer hope for biological parenthood even when sperm is absent in the ejaculate.
We deeply appreciate our Tricky readers for taking the time to explore fertility solutions with us. Your thoughtful engagement keeps us motivated to bring detailed, science-backed insights like this piece on Surgical Sperm Retrieval. Thank you for being part of this journey towards hope and parenthood!
