Authors

Boback M. Berookhim, M.D., M.B.A., John P. Mulhall, M.D., M.Sc., F.E.C.S.M.

Volume 101, Issue 3, Pages 805-811, March 2014

Abstract

Objective:

To describe the outcomes of electroejaculation (EEJ) and testicular sperm extraction (TESE) performed for fertility preservation among male patients who are unable to ejaculate or have nonobstructive azoospermia/severe oligospermia before definitive cancer therapy.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Tertiary cancer referral center.

Patient(s):

Forty-nine patients seeking fertility preservation before definitive cancer therapy, with anejaculation, religious or cultural objections to masturbation, azoospermia, or severe oligospermia requiring either EEJ or TESE.

Intervention(s):

EEJ and TESE.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Sperm retrieval rates.

Result(s):

Fifty-nine percent of patients overall and 60% of adolescents/young adults had sperm retrieved for cryopreservation. EEJ was successful in retrieving sperm in 60% of adolescents. Of all adolescents and young adults undergoing TESE, 33% had sperm retrieved for cryopreservation. No complications were reported. Chemotherapy was commenced without delay in all patients requiring it, frequently on the same day as the sperm retrieval.

Conclusion(s):

EEJ and TESE can be safely and successfully used for fertility preservation before cancer therapy among boys and young adult men who are unable to provide a semen specimen or have nonobstructive azoospermia, and they should be considered in all men meeting this patient profile.

Read the full text at: http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(13)03382-7/fulltext