Surgical Sperm Retrieval Techniques for Assisted Reproductive Technology

Abstract

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection provides in vitro fertilization for many infertility conditions. It is also an important treatment option for fertilization in azoospermic men. Sperm production in azoospermic male testicles is possible. In these patients, sperm extraction from the epididymis or testis is required before intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Numerous sperm retrieval procedures for obtaining sperm from the epididymis or testicles have been developed. The spermatozoa obtained by these methods are used in intracytoplasmic sperm injection for in vitro fertilization. The most important factor when determining the sperm retrieval method is whether the azoospermia is obstructive or non-obstructive. In addition, the experience of the surgeon performing the procedure is also effective in determining the sperm retrieval technique. In this review, sperm retrieval methods are presented, and current developments in these sperm retrieval methods are also mentioned. The indications of surgical sperm retrieval methods in both obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermic patients, the technical aspects of each method, possible complications, advantages and disadvantages of these methods are presented, and their superiority to each other are also discussed. In addition, evidence for the fertilization rates after intracytoplasmic sperm injection using sperm obtained by these methods and continuation of pregnancy is presented in a comparative manner and critically discussed.

Keywords

• sperm toplama
• yardımcı üreme teknikleri
• erkek infertilitesi
• azospermi
• sperm retrieval
• assisted reproductive techniques
• male infertility
• azoospermia