Bengaluru Clinics Harness New Tech to Combat Male Infertility

Fertility clinics in Bengaluru are embracing advanced technology to tackle challenging cases of male infertility, with the introduction of a new method known as SpermVD. This innovative solution provides a more precise alternative to traditional diagnostic techniques, specifically for patients experiencing severe male infertility issues, such as non-obstructive azoospermia and extremely low sperm count.

SpermVD stands out due to its ability to preserve very small quantities of sperm, even down to single sperm cells. This capability is critical for patients with limited sperm availability. “The technique allows high recovery of sperm after thawing, which is essential when sperm numbers are limited,” stated Dr Mohammed Ashraf C, Scientific Director and Head of Embryology at a private hospital in Bengaluru. He emphasized that stored sperm can be located quickly after warming, significantly reducing laboratory search time.

The technology also enhances procedural efficiency. A single testicular biopsy can be divided into multiple frozen portions, which helps to avoid the need for repeat surgical sperm retrievals. Furthermore, sperm freezing can occur independently of egg collection, thereby lowering the risk of cycle cancellation. Rapid freezing techniques help to minimize structural damage to the sperm.

In cases where conventional sperm freezing methods prove inadequate, particularly in conditions like cryptozoospermia and oligozoospermia, SpermVD can be a game-changer. “In cryptozoospermia, where sperm is often hidden and detectable only after centrifugation and washing, this technology allows precious motile sperm to be preserved rather than lost,” explained Dr Santosh Gupta, Clinical Director and Fertility Specialist at another private hospital. He added that the technology is equally beneficial in severe oligozoospermia, where sperm availability can be unpredictable.

Another fertility specialist, Dr Apurva Satish Amarnath, highlighted the reduced need for surgical interventions associated with this technology. “With higher recovery rates of retrieved sperm, the necessity for multiple samples is decreased, thereby reducing surgical retrievals and the associated physical stress on the patient,” he noted.

Despite its advantages, SpermVD does come with higher costs. The process requires specialized equipment, additional consumables, and increased time from laboratory staff. As a result, total charges for vitrification-based sperm freezing can be 20-30% higher than conventional freezing methods, according to Dr Ashraf.

As fertility clinics in Bengaluru continue to innovate, the introduction of SpermVD represents a significant advancement in addressing male infertility. The technology not only enhances the likelihood of successful outcomes for patients but also streamlines the process, reflecting a growing trend towards the integration of technology in reproductive health.