Testicular Biopsy
Also written as: TESE — Testicular Sperm Extraction
Surgical procedure to obtain testicular tissue for sperm retrieval or diagnostic evaluation of azoospermia.
Full Definition
Testicular biopsy involves surgical sampling of testicular tissue for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. In ART contexts, it is performed to retrieve sperm in cases of obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia for use in ICSI procedures. Techniques include fine needle aspiration (TFNA), percutaneous biopsy (TEFNA), open biopsy (TESE), or microscopic dissection (micro-TESE). The procedure can distinguish between obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia and may yield sperm for cryopreservation. Success rates vary significantly based on the underlying cause of azoospermia.
Usage
Usage note: Multiple techniques available; choice depends on clinical scenario and institutional expertise.
In Context
- "Micro-TESE revealed focal areas of spermatogenesis yielding sufficient sperm for ICSI procedures." — Surgical pathology report
- "Testicular biopsy confirmed non-obstructive azoospermia with Sertoli cell-only syndrome." — Histopathology report