Haitham Elbardisi, Emre Bakircioglu, Wen Liu, Darren Katz
{"title":"Second chance in fertility: a comprehensive narrative review of redo micro-TESE outcomes after initial failure.","authors":"Haitham Elbardisi, Emre Bakircioglu, Wen Liu, Darren Katz","doi":"10.4103/aja202446","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202446","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>When microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) fails, a redo procedure may be the only option for patients who want a biological child. However, there are many gaps of knowledge surrounding the procedure, which need to be addressed to help clinicians and patients make informed decisions. This review explores redo micro-TESE in the context of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Literature was searched using Google Scholar, Medline, and PubMed. Search terms were \"NOA\" AND \"second microdissection testicular sperm extractions\" AND \"redo microdissection testicles sperm extraction\" AND \"repeat microdissection testicular sperm extractions\" AND \"failed microdissection testicular sperm extractions\" AND \"salvage microdissection testicular sperm extractions\". Only original articles in English were included. A total of nine articles were included, consisting of four retrospective and five prospective studies. The time gap between the first and second micro-TESE varied from 6 months to 24 months. Most of the included studies reported successful surgical sperm retrieval (SSR) in the second micro-TESE in the range of 10%-21%, except in one study where it reached 42%. It has not been presented any definitive information about the use of hormonal treatment or the benefit of varicocelectomy prior to the second micro-TESE. Patients with hypospermatogenesis and Klinefelter syndrome (KS) had the highest chance of success in redo surgery. In conclusion, redo micro-TESE following a negative procedure can lead to sperm recovery in 10%-21%. Patients with hypospermatogenesis and KS have a higher chance of success. There is no enough evidence to conclude which is the best hormonal stimulation if any before a redo surgery.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":" ","pages":"409-415"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112926/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141728439","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Fresh versus frozen micro-TESE sperm and outcomes.","authors":"Krishna Chaitanya Mantravadi, Marlon Martinez, Favian Ariiq Rahmat, Armand Achmadsyah, Missy Savira, Ponco Birowo","doi":"10.4103/aja202513","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202513","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>The use of fresh versus frozen spermatozoa in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been a debated hot topic among reproductive specialists. Each approach presents distinct advantages and disadvantages, with fresh sperm typically showing superior sperm quality, while frozen sperm offers logistical flexibility and a reliable backup for repeated cycles. This review summarizes the latest advancements in sperm retrieval and cryopreservation techniques, providing practitioners with a comprehensive analysis of each option's strengths and limitations. Comparative studies indicate that, although fresh sperm often has better quality metrics, cryopreservation methods such as vitrification have significantly improved postthaw outcomes, making frozen sperm a viable choice in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The findings show comparable rates for fertilization, implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth between fresh and frozen microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) sperm in many cases, although patient-specific factors such as timing, cost-effectiveness, and procedural convenience should guide the final decision. Ultimately, the choice of using fresh or frozen sperm should align with the individual needs and conditions of patients. This tailored approach, supported by the latest advancements, can optimize ART outcomes and provide personalized reproductive care.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":"27 3","pages":"399-408"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112934/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144000433","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Carlo Giulioni, Nguyen Ho Vinh Phuoc, Selahittin Cayan
{"title":"Ex vivo microscopic testicular sperm extraction at the time of radical orchiectomy in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA): a scoping review.","authors":"Carlo Giulioni, Nguyen Ho Vinh Phuoc, Selahittin Cayan","doi":"10.4103/aja202387","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202387","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Testicular tumor is the most common solid malignancy in males under 40 years of age. This malignancy is known to have a negative impact on male fertility. Therefore, several techniques for sperm retrieval have been proposed, including microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE). The objective of this study was to review the literature on the outcomes of oncological (Onco)-mTESE at the time of radical orchiectomy. We conducted a comprehensive literature search through PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Controlled Register of Trials. Only studies reporting ex vivo mTESE in patients with testicular tumor were considered. Twelve papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Tumor size was identified as the sole preoperative factor influencing spermatogenesis. The considered studies demonstrated a satisfactory success rate for Onco-mTESE, associated with a similarly valid percentage of live healthy births through assisted reproductive technology. Currently, no comparison has been made between Onco-mTESE and conventional Onco-TESE, hence further assessment is required. In cases where the tumor completely replaces the cancer-bearing testicle, a contralateral micro-TESE may be a viable alternative. However, the surgeon should evaluate associated risks and benefits preoperatively. In conclusion, Onco-mTESE at the time of radical orchiectomy appears to be a promising therapeutic option for young patients with testicular tumors. Nevertheless, additional studies are necessary to achieve a definitive conclusion.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":" ","pages":"416-422"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112930/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139693732","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Logan Hubbard, Amarnath Rambhatla, Giovanni M Colpi
{"title":"Differentiation between nonobstructive azoospermia and obstructive azoospermia: then and now.","authors":"Logan Hubbard, Amarnath Rambhatla, Giovanni M Colpi","doi":"10.4103/aja202475","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202475","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Male infertility has seen an increase in prevalence with cases of azoospermia estimated to affect 10%-15% of infertile men. Confirmation of azoospermia subsequently necessitates an early causal differentiation between obstructive azoospermia (OA) and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Although less common when compared to NOA, OA can represent upward 20%-40% of cases of azoospermia. While there are a multitude of etiologies responsible for causing NOA and OA, correctly distinguishing between the two types of azoospermia has profound implications in managing the infertile male. This review represents an amalgamation of the current guidelines and literature which will supply the reproductive physician with a diagnostic armamentarium to properly distinguish between NOA and OA, therefore providing the best possible care to the infertile couple.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":" ","pages":"298-306"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112924/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142303271","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hao-Cheng Lin, Wen-Hao Tang, Yan Chen, Yang-Yi Fang, Kai Hong
{"title":"Microdissection testicular sperm extraction for men with nonobstructive azoospermia who have a testicular tumor in situ at the time of sperm retrieval.","authors":"Hao-Cheng Lin, Wen-Hao Tang, Yan Chen, Yang-Yi Fang, Kai Hong","doi":"10.4103/aja2024109","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja2024109","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Oncological microdissection testicular sperm extraction (onco-micro-TESE) represents a significant breakthrough for patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) and a concomitant in situ testicular tumor, to be managed at the time of sperm retrieval. Onco-micro-TESE addresses the dual objectives of treating both infertility and the testicular tumor simultaneously. The technique is intricate, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of testicular anatomy, physiology, tumor biology, and advanced microsurgical methods. It aims to carefully extract viable spermatozoa while minimizing the risk of tumor dissemination. This review encapsulates the procedural intricacies, evaluates success determinants, including tumor pathology and spermatogenic tissue health, and discusses the implementation of imaging techniques for enhanced surgical precision. Ethical considerations are paramount, as the procedure implicates complex decision-making that weighs the potential oncological risks against the profound desire for fatherhood using the male gametes. The review aims to provide a holistic overview of onco-micro-TESE, detailing methodological advances, clinical outcomes, and the ethical landscape, thus offering an indispensable resource for clinicians navigating this multifaceted clinical scenario.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":" ","pages":"423-427"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112931/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143525071","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mahdi Bazzi, Matthew Chabot, Amarnath Rambhatla, Eric Chung
{"title":"Diagnostic algorithm in men suspected with nonobstructive azoospermia.","authors":"Mahdi Bazzi, Matthew Chabot, Amarnath Rambhatla, Eric Chung","doi":"10.4103/aja202529","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202529","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>This review focuses on the diagnostic algorithm for nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA), a significant male factor contributing to infertility. NOA, characterized by the absence of sperm in the ejaculate, requires a systematic diagnostic approach to identify reversible conditions, genetic factors, and prognosis for achieving pregnancy. The diagnostic pathway involves semen analysis and a comprehensive evaluation for hormonal deficiencies, anatomical abnormalities, and genetic factors. The importance of medical history, physical examination, endocrine evaluation, imaging, and genetic testing is emphasized. This review highlights the significance of differentiating NOA from obstructive azoospermia (OA) and outlines key considerations for effective management, including surgical sperm retrieval and assisted reproductive techniques. Testicular biopsy is discussed as a definitive method to distinguish obstructive cases from nonobstructive cases, providing valuable prognostic information. Overall, a thorough and systematic diagnostic approach is essential for the effective management of men suspected with NOA, offering insights into potential treatment options and reproductive outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":"27 3","pages":"307-310"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112923/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144026427","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Health risks associated with infertility and non-obstructive azoospermia.","authors":"Eric Huyghe, Peter Ka-Fung Chiu","doi":"10.4103/aja20256","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja20256","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Non-obstructive azoospermia is a common condition associated with significant health risks, including increased mortality, cancer, and chronic diseases such as metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. This review aims to highlight the potential health challenges faced by men with this condition compared to fertile counterparts. Through a comprehensive bibliographic search on PubMed, using the following algorithm: (\"infertility, male\" [MeSH Terms] OR \"azoospermia\" [MeSH Terms]) AND (\"mortality\" [MeSH Terms] OR \"neoplasms\" [MeSH Terms] OR \"chronic disease\" [MeSH Terms] OR \"diabetes mellitus\" [MeSH Terms] OR \"heart diseases\" [MeSH Terms]), we analyzed existing literature to explore the associations between infertility, specifically azoospermia, and adverse health outcomes. Findings indicate that infertile men are at a higher risk of death, various cancers (particularly testicular cancer), metabolic syndrome, diabetes, hypogonadism, and cardiovascular disease. Although research specifically addressing azoospermia is limited, available studies support the notion that men with this condition may experience heightened health vulnerabilities. Given these risks, it is imperative for healthcare professionals, especially urologists, to conduct thorough health assessments for men diagnosed with azoospermia. Informing patients of these potential health issues and integrating comprehensive evaluations into their care can facilitate early detection and intervention for life-threatening conditions. Ultimately, men with azoospermia should receive ongoing monitoring to address their specific health concerns, thus improving their long-term health outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":"27 3","pages":"428-432"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112920/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144044672","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Clinical predictors of successful outcomes for couples with nonobstructive azoospermic male partners undergoing micro-TESE.","authors":"Parviz K Kavoussi, Nazim Gherabi, Ramadan Saleh","doi":"10.4103/aja202436","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202436","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most challenging and complex clinical scenario for infertile men. Besides circumstances such as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, surgical sperm retrieval is typically necessary, and microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) is the procedure of choice for men with NOA desiring to father children with their own gametes. Micro-TESE results in the highest numbers of sperm cells retrieved for use with in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in comparison to all other techniques for surgical sperm retrieval in men with NOA. Several factors may affect sperm retrieval rate and ICSI outcomes, including the patient's age, testicular volume, histopathological and genetic profile, and serum hormone levels. This article aims to review the medical literature describing predictors of successful micro-TESE and the outcomes of ICSI in men with NOA.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":" ","pages":"365-369"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112918/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141749994","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Varicocele and nonobstructive azoospermia.","authors":"Parviz K Kavoussi, Chirag Gupta, Rupin Shah","doi":"10.4103/aja202444","DOIUrl":"10.4103/aja202444","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Approximately 15% of men in the general population have varicoceles, and varicoceles are diagnosed in 40% of men presenting for fertility evaluations. One percent of men in the general population are azoospermic, and 15% of men presenting for fertility evaluations are diagnosed with azoospermia. This article aims to review the impact of varicoceles on testicular function in men with azoospermia, the impact of varicocele repair on the semen parameters of azoospermic men, and the impact of varicocele repair on sperm retrieval and pregnancy outcomes when the male partner remains azoospermic after varicocele repair.</p>","PeriodicalId":93889,"journal":{"name":"Asian journal of andrology","volume":" ","pages":"355-360"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12112937/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141895061","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}