A testicular biopsy is a minor surgical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the testicles and examined under a microscope. This helps doctors understand how sperm are being produced and whether any blockages or abnormalities exist.
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Testicular Biopsy – A Key Procedure in Male Infertility Evaluation
How the Testicular Biopsy Is Performed
The procedure may be done using two main techniques. The choice depends on the medical condition and the reason for testing.
1. Open Testicular Biopsy
- The skin over the testicle is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
- Local anesthesia is given to numb the area.
- A very small cut is made on the skin, and a tiny tissue sample is removed from the testicle.
- The opening is stitched, and the same may be done for the other testicle if required.
- Needle Biopsy
- This method does not require any cut on the skin.
- Local anesthesia is used, and a special needle is inserted to extract the tissue sample.
- Not all patients are suitable for a needle biopsy, depending on the diagnosis.
At Kiran Infertility Center, Marichela, both techniques are performed by experienced specialists in a safe and sterile environment.
What You Will Feel During the Procedure
- You may feel a quick sting when the anesthetic is injected.
- During the biopsy, most patients experience only mild pressure—not pain.
- Any discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.
Why a Testicular Biopsy Is Done
A testicular biopsy is commonly performed to:
- Determine the cause of male infertility, especially when sperm are absent in the semen analysis.
- Check whether sperm production within the testicles is normal.
- Retrieve sperm directly from the testicles for IVF/ICSI when necessary.
If sperm are successfully obtained, they can be used to fertilize the partner’s eggs during an IVF cycle.
Normal Results
- Healthy sperm development
- No cancerous or abnormal cells
Abnormal Results May Indicate
- Issues with sperm production
- Hormonal problems
- Blockages in the reproductive tract
In some cases, even if sperm production is normal, sperm may not appear in the semen due to a blockage. Such blockages can sometimes be surgically corrected.
Risks and Recovery
Testicular biopsy is generally safe. Possible risks include:
- Mild bleeding
- Infection (rare)
- Temporary swelling or discoloration of the scrotum
Most symptoms settle within a few days.
Post-Procedure Care
Your doctor will recommend:
- Wearing an athletic supporter for 2–3 days
- Avoiding sexual activity for 1–2 weeks
- Using a cold pack intermittently for the first 24 hours
- Keeping the area clean and dry
- Avoiding aspirin or aspirin-based medicines for one week