TESE
Also written as: TESE — Testicular Sperm Extraction
A surgical procedure to extract sperm directly from testicular tissue in men with azoospermia.
Full Definition
Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to retrieve sperm from the testes of men with azoospermia, particularly those with non-obstructive azoospermia where sperm production is severely impaired but may still occur in focal areas. The procedure involves making a small incision in the testis and removing small tissue samples for microscopic examination to locate sperm. Retrieved sperm can then be used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedures. Variations include conventional TESE and microdissection TESE (micro-TESE), with the latter using an operating microscope to identify areas of active spermatogenesis, potentially improving sperm retrieval rates while minimizing tissue damage.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from PESA (percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration) and micro-TESE (microsurgical variant).
In Context
- "The urologist recommended TESE for sperm retrieval given the patient's non-obstructive azoospermia." — Surgical referral letter
- "TESE procedures require coordination with the IVF laboratory for immediate sperm processing." — Procedural protocol