Non-Obstructive Azospermia Extraction Procedures
Sometimes men have profound sperm production problems in which no sperm are present in the ejaculate despite the absence of any blockage. If no reversible causes are found, then the production problem is often due to a genetic abnormality which has affected the ability of the testicles to produce sperm.
Men in these situations sometimes have small 'pockets' of sperm production which exist within the testicle, but do not produce enough sperm to 'spill over' into the ejaculate. There are techniques, such as FNA (fine needle aspiration) mapping of the testicle and microTESE (microscopic testicular sperm extraction), which can be used to find sperm from these isolated areas of the testicles in some patients. Any sperm found with these procedures are then used for IVF/ICSI in conjunction with a female fertility specialist.
Due to the complexity of these fertility situations, Dr. Russell is unfortunately not able to offer free phone consultations for patients who may need a sperm extraction for a severe sperm production problem. Office consultations with review of all prior testing is necessary to develop an effective management plan in these situations.
