Male Surgical Diagnostic Tests

When other types of fertility tests, such as semen analysis, fail to reveal the cause of male infertility problems, surgical diagnostic tests may be performed. These tests can determine the causes of infertility due to low sperm count, low semen volume, and other male factor infertility problems.

Testicular Biopsy Procedures

A biopsy of the testicles can determine whether sperm production is normal or abnormal, as well as the possible location of blockages. There are two types of testicular biopsy procedures that can be performed - needle or open - and both take about 30 minutes to complete.

• Needle Biopsy - Performed under local anesthesia and involves obtaining a sample of tissue from the testis using a small needle.
• Open Biopsy - Typically performed under general anesthesia and involves making a small incision in the skin to remove a sample of tissue from the testis.

Vasography

Vasography is a test used to determine the site of possible blockages. A radiographic dye is injected into the vas deferens and ejaculatory ducts. An x-ray image is then taken to observe the flow of the dye through the ducts to determine the site of any blockages. In some cases, an incisional vasography procedure can be performed when the location of a blockage cannot be found through the x-ray examination.

Contact a Fertility Clinic near You

Fertility testing can help a couple determine if male factor infertility is affecting their chances of becoming pregnant. You can schedule an appointment with a fertility doctor near you by finding a fertility clinic through DocShop's online directory.