The Evolution of Testicular Sperm Extraction and Preservation Techniques

Overview

Journal Fac Rev

Specialty Biomedical Engineering

Date 2021 Mar 4

PMID 33659934

Citations 2

Authors

Erica S Godart

Paul J Turek

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Along with the advent of intracytoplasmic sperm injection in 1992, sperm retrieval procedures now allow the possibility of conception from male sterility. In cases of sterility due to blockages in the reproductive tract, sperm retrieval procedures are relatively straightforward and reliable. In nonobstructive azoospermia or testis failure, sperm often can be difficult to retrieve. For this reason, the field of testicular sperm retrieval has witnessed tremendous change and innovation to achieve higher sperm yields, increasing efficiency and safety, along with fewer complications. We review the history and evolution of testicular sperm retrieval since its inception. Using the findings from randomized controlled trials, basic science studies, meta-analyses, case-controlled or cohort studies, best-practice policies, and literature reviews, we outline the concepts, facts, and principles that have been elucidated over several decades of experience with sperm retrieval. We also appraise the merits and issues of the most popular sperm retrieval techniques and strategies. Finally, we define areas of future clinical and laboratory development that will further refine the field of testicular sperm retrieval.

Citing Articles

Revisiting non-obstructive azoospermia: Is there a best way to retrieve testicular sperm?.

Kanto S, Ichioka K, Sato Y, Uchino Y, Tanaka T, Endo M Reprod Med Biol. 2025; 24(1):e12632.

PMID: 39917553 PMC: 11799768. DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12632.

Testicular sperm aspiration has a poor effect in predicting micro-TESE outcomes in NOA patients with AZFc deletion.

Deng C, Mao J, Zhao L, Liu D, Lin H, Zhang Z Basic Clin Androl. 2023; 33(1):28.

PMID: 37558984 PMC: 10413523. DOI: 10.1186/s12610-023-00195-x.

Endocrine Follow-Up of Men with Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Following Testicular Sperm Extraction.

Billa E, Kanakis G, Goulis D J Clin Med. 2021; 10(15).

PMID: 34362107 PMC: 8347935. DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153323.

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