Surgical sperm retrieval is used when sperm are needed for fertility treatment but cannot be found easily in the semen. Mr Vinod Nargund offers expert assessment and surgical sperm retrieval options for men who need sperm for IVF or ICSI treatment.
This may be recommended for men with obstructive azoospermia, non-obstructive azoospermia, or in situations where sperm must be retrieved directly from the epididymis or testis. The aim is to identify the most suitable technique for the individual patient and fertility pathway.
Procedures offered
- PESA: Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration.
- TESA: Testicular Sperm Aspiration.
- TESE: Testicular Sperm Extraction.
- Further surgical sperm retrieval planning, where clinically appropriate.
How it works
PESA involves a fine needle being used to collect sperm from the epididymis. TESA involves retrieving sperm directly from the testicle using a fine needle. TESE involves a small incision into the testicle to obtain tissue samples, which are then checked for sperm. In some cases, if one technique is not suitable, another may be used during the same pathway.
What patients should know
Surgical sperm retrieval is often part of a wider fertility journey and may be linked to sperm freezing and IVF or ICSI treatment. Mr Nargund will explain the procedure, expected recovery, and how the sperm retrieval fits into the next stage of treatment.
Why choose Mr Nargund
Mr Nargund’s experience in male fertility and testicular surgery makes him well placed to advise patients who need a specialist and practical approach to sperm retrieval. His consultation style is designed to be discreet, clear, and focused on helping patients move forward with confidence.
Reviewed by Mr Vinod Nargund, MBBS, PhD, FRCS(Urol), FEBU. Last updated 12 September 2026.