Fine needle aspiration testicular biopsy under local anaesthetics

What is a FNA testicular biopsy?

A fine needle aspirate testicular biopsy is a small procedure, done under local anaesthesia, in the andrology laboratory, to retrieve sperm directly from the testes. Local anaesthetic is injected in to the scrotum first, to numb the skin. Then a very find needle passed through the skin, into the testes to retrieve sperm. The sperm is collected to be used at the time, or in the future, for IVF fertility treatment.

In IVF, eggs will need to be retrieved first and then the sperm from the testes will be injected into the eggs through ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). The fertilise eggs will by grown to a blastocyst embryo, to then be placed back into the uterus for pregnancy.

The testicular biopsy takes approximated 15-30 minutes to perform, and sperm may be retrieved from one testis or both testes.

What to expect after FNA testicular biopsy?

You will go home after your procedure. There is no incision through the skin or muscle for this procedure. It is normal to have some mild bruising, tenderness and slight swelling for a few days. You should avoid strenuous activities for a week. You should wear supportive underwear (briefs not boxers) for the first 48 hours after the procedure.

What are the risks of FNA testicular biopsy?

This procedure is usually well tolerated and complication rates are low (<5%). Uncommon complications include infection, bleeding and haematoma formation. Occasionally there can be chronic pain of the testes or disruption of testes hormonal function. A very rare, but very serious risk is disruption of the blood supply of the testes that can lead to loss of the testes.

What should I do if I experience any problems during my recovery period?

You should seek immediate medical attention by going to the emergency department of your closest hospital or by contacting me if you experience any of the below mentioned conditions:

• increased swelling to the testes or scrotum
• testes or surrounding area is hot to touch
• fever
• discharge or increase bleeding from the wound
• any significant pain in your testes, which cannot be managed with pain killers
• significant increase in bleeding or bruising of the testes or scrotum