TESA and TESE Sperm Retrieval in Tbilisi Georgia Guide
TESA and TESE Sperm Retrieval in Tbilisi Georgia Guide
When a semen sample contains no sperm, a condition called azoospermia, many couples assume a biological child is out of reach. In many cases it is not. TESA and TESE are surgical techniques that collect sperm directly from the testicle, and our IVF clinic in Tbilisi, Georgia offers them alongside laboratory and fertility care under one roof.
What TESA and TESE Mean
TESA stands for testicular sperm aspiration. A fine needle is passed into the testicle, and a small amount of tissue and fluid is drawn out for the laboratory to examine. TESE stands for testicular sperm extraction, where a small piece of testicular tissue is removed through a minor incision so the embryologist can search it for sperm. A refined version, micro TESE, uses an operating microscope to find the tubes most likely to contain sperm while removing as little tissue as possible.
Who May Need These Procedures
There are two broad groups. In obstructive azoospermia, sperm are produced normally but a blockage stops them from reaching the semen, for example after a vasectomy or because of a congenital absence of the vas deferens. TESA often works well here. In non obstructive azoospermia, the testicles produce very few sperm, or none that reach the semen, and TESE or micro TESE is usually preferred. Our urology and fertility team decides which approach fits after a physical exam, hormone tests, and a genetic work up that may include a karyotype and a check for Y chromosome microdeletions.
How the Process Works
The procedure is done at our hospital under local or general anesthesia and usually takes less than an hour. The tissue goes straight to the embryology laboratory, where it is examined under a microscope. Any sperm found can be used fresh on the day the partner's eggs are collected, or frozen through cryopreservation for a later cycle, which avoids repeating surgery. The retrieved sperm are used with ICSI, in which a single sperm is injected into each mature egg. Embryos are grown in the laboratory and one is transferred to the uterus, with a pregnancy test about 9 to 12 days later.
Recovery and Risks
Most men return home the same day and resume light activity within a few days. Temporary swelling, bruising, and mild pain are common and are treated with simple pain relief. Infection and bleeding are uncommon, and micro TESE aims to reduce tissue loss and protect hormone production. Your surgeon will explain the risks in detail before you decide.
Honest Expectations
Finding sperm is never guaranteed, especially in non obstructive azoospermia, where the chance depends on the cause and on the individual. If no sperm are found, other options such as donor sperm can be discussed. Genetic counseling is recommended before treatment, because some causes of azoospermia can be passed on to sons.
Why Patients Choose Our Tbilisi Team
As a full service IVF clinic, center, and hospital in Tbilisi, we bring surgeons, embryologists, and coordinators together, and our international patient team helps with scheduling, travel, and communication with your doctor at home. If you are exploring TESA or TESE, our team in Tbilisi, Georgia is ready to review your history and explain your options.
