Sperm Retrieval in the Obstructive, Nonobstructive Azoospermic and Aspermic Patients

Sperm retrieval includes essential procedures in the treatment and management of male factor infertility. Appropriate diagnostic investigation is necessary to correctly identify the etiology of azoospermia among obstructive, nonobstructive (defective spermatogenesis), and aspermia. In this chapter, we discuss the necessary work-up of an individual presenting with azoospermia along with the relevant medical and surgical management to optimize success with surgical sperm retrieval. This review contains 7 figures, 2 tables, and 68 references. Key Words: anejaculation, azoospermia, MESA, microTESE, nonobstructive azoospermia, obstructive azoospermia, PESA, TESE, testicular biopsy