About MESA
This information is intended for general information only and should not be considered as medical advice on the part of Health-Tourism.com. Any decision on medical treatments, after-care or recovery should be done solely upon proper consultation and advice of a qualified physician.
What is MESA?
MESA (Micro-Epididymal Sperm Aspiration), is a fertility treatment procedure for men who have an absence of sperm in their ejaculate. MESA is used alongside the ICSI fertility procedure.
How is MESA carried out?
- The surgeon makes a small cut in the scrotum and exposes the epididymis, the place where sperm are stored prior to ejaculation.
- Sperm are extracted from the epididymis using a fine needle and syringe.
- The sperm are then stored in the laboratory for use in the ICSI procedure.
Who is a suitable candidate for MESA?
MESA is carried out on men who have no sperm in their ejaculate. This can happen for a number of reasons - a blockage in the vas deferens that stops sperm passing from the testicles to the penis, a vasectomy that means the passages have been cut, or a congenital problem which means the man is born without a vas deferens (congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD)).
Duration of procedure/surgery : The MESA procedure takes between 1 and 2 hours to complete.
Days admitted : None. MESA is carried out as an outpatient procedure and requires no overnight stay.
Anesthesia : MESA is usually carried out under general anesthesia although local anesthesia may also be used.
Recovery : You will be able to return to normal activities the day after the MESA surgical procedure.
Risks : - Infection from surgery.
- Swelling.
- No sperm able to be retrieved.
After care : - Discomfort and swelling in the groin area can be relieved with mild pain killer.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry following the MESA procedure.
Learn more about MESA