In
order to attain fertilization, some couples may require special procedure such
as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). This is a micromanipulation
technique where a single sperm is injected into each of the mature oocyte.
Both the sperm and the oocyte are specially prepared for this procedure and then
the egg is injected with a single
sperm using a microscopic needle. This
technique allows couples with extremely small numbers of low quality sperm to
achieve fertilization and pregnancy.
Testicular / Epididymal Sperm Aspiration
(TESA-MESA)
Some men suffer a blockage or other abnormality that prevents the
passage of sperm through ejaculation. A minor surgical procedure can be
performed where sperm is retrieved from the epididymis or directly from the
testicle itself. This sperm is then injected (ICSI) into the mature eggs
obtained through
IVF. Sperm from Testicular / Epididymal Aspiration can be successfully cryopreserved for future use.
