MESA

Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA) is a sophisticated surgical procedure used in the field of reproductive medicine to address certain male infertility issues. This technique is particularly relevant for men who have obstructive azoospermia, a condition where sperm production is normal but a blockage in the reproductive tract prevents sperm from being present in the ejaculate.

Overview of MESA:

MESA involves the extraction of sperm directly from the epididymis, which is a coiled tube located at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. This procedure is typically performed under a microscope, which allows for high precision and minimal invasiveness, reducing the risk of damage to the epididymis and surrounding tissues.

MESA Procedure Details:

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or clinic setting under general or local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum to access the epididymis. Utilizing a microsurgical technique, the surgeon identifies the tubules within the epididymis most likely to contain sperm. These tubules are then carefully opened, and the fluid containing the sperm is aspirated. The collected fluid is examined under a microscope immediately to assess the presence and quality of the sperm.

Applications in Assisted Reproduction:

The sperm retrieved through MESA are primarily used in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into an egg, making it a suitable option even when sperm count is low.

Advantages of MESA:

One of the primary advantages of MESA is its high success rate in retrieving viable sperm, particularly in cases of obstructive azoospermia due to conditions like congenital absence of

the vas deferens or previous vasectomies. Compared to other sperm retrieval methods, MESA can yield a higher quantity of sperm, often enough for multiple cycles of IVF or for cryopreservation for future use. The microsurgical approach also minimizes the risk of damage to the epididymis and testicles, which can be a concern in more invasive procedures.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery:

Following MESA, men may experience mild pain or discomfort, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Recovery time is relatively short, with most men able to resume normal activities within a few days. However, strenuous activities and sexual intercourse may be restricted for a short period as advised by the surgeon.

Risks and Considerations:

While MESA is generally safe, it is still a surgical procedure and carries some risks such as bleeding, infection, or damage to the epididymis. The success of the procedure in terms of fertility outcomes also depends on several factors, including the quality of the eggs, the woman’s age, and other fertility factors.

Conclusion: MESA has become an integral part of the treatment for certain types of male infertility, particularly in cases where obstruction prevents sperm from being present in the ejaculate. Its precision, effectiveness, and relatively low risk make it a preferred method for sperm retrieval in conjunction with ART procedures like IVF and ICSI. As with any medical procedure, candidates for MESA should discuss the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

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