The complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate does not mean the absence of fatherhood. As a highly specialized fertility clinic in Lahore, Pakistan, we utilize advanced microscopic retrieval techniques (micro-TESE, PESA) and ICSI to unlock biological possibilities that were once thought impossible. Dr. Adnan Jabbar routinely treats the most severe cases of male infertility.
Depending on the etiology, micro-TESE succeeds in finding viable sperm in up to 60% of non-obstructive cases, allowing for immediate ICSI.
Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm in ejaculated semen, affecting approximately 1% of all men and 10–15% of infertile men. It is classified as obstructive (blockage preventing sperm release) or non-obstructive (impaired sperm production), each requiring a distinct treatment pathway. Micro-TESE retrieval successfully finds sperm in 50–60% of non-obstructive cases.
1%
Of all men have azoospermia; 10–15% of infertile men (WHO, 2021)
50–60%
Micro-TESE sperm retrieval success rate, non-obstructive azoospermia (Schlegel, 2019)
90%+
Retrieval success in obstructive azoospermia via PESA/TESA (ASRM, 2022)
Azoospermia is broadly categorized into two distinct forms. The exact clinical pathway we take—and the likelihood of success—depends entirely on which form is diagnosed via hormonal and ultrasound profiling.
Spermatogenesis (sperm production) in the testes is entirely normal, but a physical blockage prevents sperm from reaching the ejaculate.
Prognosis: Excellent.
Retrieval success approaches 95-100%.
The blockages do not exist, but the testicles themselves are failing to produce measurable amounts of sperm.
Prognosis: Guarded but highly possible.
Micro-TESE finds sperm in ~50-60% of men.
Differentiation is critical. We deploy a strict diagnostic framework to prevent unnecessary invasive procedures.
An elevated FSH often points strongly to non-obstructive testicular failure, whereas a normal profile usually indicates an anatomical blockage.
High-resolution scrotal ultrasounds evaluate testicular volume and look directly for absence or dilatation of the vas deferens and epididymis.
Karyotyping and AZF Microdeletion panels are strictly ordered for severe NOA to predict the success rate of retrieval surgeries.
Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) or Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) use fine needles to extract sperm directly, used primarily for Obstructive Azoospermia.
Under high-powered surgical microscopes, we identify micro-islands of healthy sperm production within otherwise failing testicles. The undisputed gold standard for Non-Obstructive Azoospermia cases in Pakistan.
Instead of relying on natural motility, a single healthy, surgically-retrieved sperm is selected and injected directly into the cytoplasm of the harvested egg by Dr. Adnan Jabbar.
Have questions about your treatment options?
Dr. Adnan Jabbar responds personally — usually within a few hours.
A diagnosis of Azoospermia requires a highly methodical, evidence-based approach. Blind testicular biopsies without prior hormonal profiling often cause unnecessary scar tissue and fail to retrieve sperm. Dr. Adnan Jabbar operates a dedicated male infertility clinic in Lahore, utilizing exact diagnostic algorithms before moving to surgical retrieval. This minimizes trauma to the testes while systematically maximizing the chances of finding viable sperm for IVF/ICSI.
Using advanced operating microscopes, we can locate isolated pockets of spermatogenesis even in atrophied testicles.
Surgically retrieved tissue is immediately processed in the adjoining embryology lab to confirm the presence of viable sperm while the patient is still under anesthesia.
We provide realistic prognoses based on specific genetic markers (like AZF microdeletions), ensuring couples are fully informed.
If you have been diagnosed with zero sperm count, do not lose hope. Advanced microscopy and embryology provide pathways to biological fatherhood.
Retrieved sperm from TESE/PESA are immediately used in ICSI for maximum success.
Full IVF cycle required alongside sperm retrieval for azoospermia treatment.
PESA, TESA, and micro-TESE techniques explained in detail.
Severe oligospermia and azoospermia exist on the same diagnostic spectrum.
Comprehensive guide to all male factor fertility conditions.
High DNA fragmentation is often associated with severe male factor infertility.
Dr. Adnan Jabbar offers personalised consultations for IVF, ICSI, IUI, and all fertility concerns. Contact us today — Lahore clinic or teleconsultation available.
+92 311 110 1483 · Gulberg III, Lahore
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Adnan Jabbar
MBBS, FCPS (Obs & Gyn) · Fertility Consultant & Clinical Embryologist
15+ years of experience in IVF, ICSI, and reproductive medicine. Dual-trained as a Fertility Consultant and Clinical Embryologist, serving patients in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad.