PESA/TESA (sperm aspiration procedures)
Also written as surgical sperm retrieval
Procedures using a fine needle to collect sperm directly from the epididymis (PESA) or testicle (TESA), used when sperm are absent from the ejaculate.
In plain English
These are needle procedures that collect sperm straight from the epididymis or testicle, used when there's no sperm in the semen sample.
Why it matters
They're typically combined with ICSI, since the small number of sperm retrieved this way need to be injected directly into an egg.
Related terms
Guides that cover this
Written by patients, not clinicians. This page has not yet been reviewed by a named fertility professional, so it explains published guidance and points you to the original source instead of giving medical advice. It is not medical advice. Decisions about your treatment belong with your own clinic. Read our editorial policy and corrections policy.