A Look at the MESA Procedure

MESA, or microscopic epididymal sperm aspiration, is an ideal choice if in vitro fertilization is planned to achieve pregnancy. The MESA procedure is one of many sperm aspiration procedures that collects sperm for later use. Aspiration techniques are used to address both natural infertility and the effects of a vasectomy .

How Is MESA Performed?

The MESA technique is performed in an outpatient setting with the use of either local or general anesthesia. During this procedure, your surgeon directly accesses the epididymis where sperm are stored via a small incision. The epididymis contains small tubules, which are examined microscopically to confirm the presence of quality sperm. Fluid containing the sperm is collected and tested to ensure viable sperm have been procured. If the sperm do not appear healthy or are dead, a different tubule or area of the epididymis can be accessed until a viable sample is collected. This fluid is saved and sperm can be collected for immediate use or frozen for subsequent attempts at artificial insemination to maximize the chance of a successful pregnancy.

What Are the Advantages of MESA?

The MESA procedure does not access the testicle itself, allowing for a smaller risk of complications, less pain and swelling, and faster recovery. You can expect to recover from your procedure and return to work within a single day. MESA is currently the safest, most cost-effective, and reliable aspiration technique available for those who have undergone a vasectomy, harvesting the largest quantity of viable sperm. Although infertility is not permanently reversed, you and your partner may attempt pregnancy at any future date using the sperm stored from a single MESA procedure.

Are you wondering if the MESA procedure is right for you? Contact Dr. Joshua Greene of the Center For Vasectomy Reversal at (941) 225-2317 to schedule a consultation and get the information you need to make the right decision. You can learn more about MESA and other procedures to address infertility by clicking on our website.