MESA (Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) will be offered to you if the doctor thinks that you produce sperm, which are not being released with your ejaculate. By doing a MESA it allows us to bypass the blockage. These sperm can only be used for in vitro fertilisation treatment (IVF) so before considering MESA as a couple, you should be sure you wish to progress to IVF

Before your sample can be frozen we must screen all patients for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C as well as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Information will be given to you and written consent is required before taking the blood sample for screening. This will be done at the Fertility Clinic.

If it is found that you do carry any one of these viruses, we cannot freeze and store your sample.

If you have previously had a vasectomy, you will be charged for the storage of any sample obtained at MESA.

• You will be admitted to Ward 42, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where the doctor will see you and explain the operation.
• You need to sign a consent form to allow storage of any sperm obtained. This will be explained to you.
• MESA is usually done under a general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep.
• A small cut is made in the skin of the scrotum.

• If no sperm is found, then a small piece of tissue is taken from the testicle and examined for sperm (TESE).
• The cut is closed using dissolving stitches (which do not need removed).
• The sperm collected are usually then frozen, stored and used in an IVF treatment.
• The lab technique to fertilise eggs is called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

• You will be asked to remain in bed for the first few hours.
• The doctor will let you know what was found before you go home.
• You will be seen again in the Fertility Centre to discuss the results and what they mean in full.

• You must keep the wound clean by showering or bathing every day.
• Wear firm, supporting underpants night and day for one week after the procedure, you can remove these to bathe.
• No sexual activity for 2 weeks
• You might notice some blood in your ejaculate at first. This is normal.
• Most men can resume routine physical activity after 2 to 3 days, but you should avoid strenuous activity (such as cycling, running, swimming) for 7 to 10 days.
• Healing is usually complete within 10 to 14 days.
• The stitches may take 6 to 8 weeks to dissolve completely, but if they are uncomfortable your GP or practice nurse can remove them after 7 days.

Complications such as bleeding or infection are rare, happening in less than 1% (1 in 100) of patients.

You may have a little bruising or tenderness for 24 to 48 hours.

Chances of obtaining sperm from a MESA are over 70%. If enough sperm cells are found then they can be frozen, stored and used to do ICSI in a future IVF cycle.