Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) is a medical procedure used to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles. It is often performed on men who have low or no sperm production due to conditions like azoospermia or hormonal imbalances. The procedure typically involves a small incision in the scrotum, allowing a doctor to access the testicular tissue and extract sperm for use in assisted reproductive techniques.
After the sperm is collected, it can be used for procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). TESE is usually done under local or general anesthesia and is considered a minimally invasive procedure with a relatively quick recovery time.