How successful is Micro-TESE?

Micro-TESE can retrieve sperm in some men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), but sperm retrieval is not guaranteed. The likelihood of finding sperm depends on factors such as the underlying cause of azoospermia, testicular function, genetic findings, hormone levels, and previous treatment. Your specialist can provide a more individualized assessment after a complete fertility evaluation.

Micro-TESE (Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction) is designed to search the testicle for areas that may still contain sperm-producing tissue. It is particularly used in selected men with non-obstructive azoospermia, where sperm production is severely impaired.

What is the sperm retrieval rate with Micro-TESE?

Published studies report different sperm retrieval rates because patient populations and underlying causes vary.

In men with non-obstructive azoospermia, Micro-TESE may retrieve sperm in approximately 40–60% of cases, although the actual likelihood can be higher or lower depending on individual factors.

Therefore, a specific success rate should not be promised for every patient.

What factors affect Micro-TESE success?

Several factors can influence the possibility of retrieving sperm, including:

• Cause of azoospermia.
• Degree of sperm-production impairment.
• Testicular function.
• Hormone levels.
• Genetic abnormalities.
• Previous testicular surgery or treatment.
• Results of previous sperm retrieval attempts.

A detailed evaluation helps the specialist estimate the potential for sperm retrieval.

Is Micro-TESE successful in all cases of azoospermia?

No. Micro-TESE cannot guarantee that viable sperm will be found.

Some men with severe non-obstructive azoospermia may have very limited or absent sperm production throughout the testicular tissue.

This is why proper evaluation and counseling before the procedure are important.

What happens if sperm are successfully retrieved?

If viable sperm are identified, they can generally be used for ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) as part of assisted reproductive treatment.

The retrieved sperm may be processed and used according to the fertility team's treatment plan.

Can Micro-TESE be repeated?

In selected situations, repeat sperm retrieval may be considered, but this decision depends on the underlying condition, previous procedure, testicular function, and the treating specialist's assessment.

A repeat procedure should not be assumed to have the same outcome as the first attempt.

SCI International Hospital

At SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Vishal Dutt Gour, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, provides specialized evaluation for men with azoospermia and severe male infertility who may require advanced sperm retrieval. After assessing the underlying cause, hormonal profile, testicular function, and other relevant factors, he determines whether Micro-TESE is appropriate and discusses the expected benefits, limitations, and possible outcomes with the patient.