Selection of viable spermatozoa from testicular biopsies: a comparative study between pentoxifylline and hypoosmotic swelling test

Abstract

To compare fertilization, cleavage, and pregnancy outcome using pentoxifylline and a hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test to select viable spermatozoa from testicular biopsy specimens. Open, comparative, prospective study. G.S. Medical College and Fertility clinic, Mumbai, India. A total of 50 couples enrolled for infertility treatment having a male factor indication of nonobstructive azoospermia. Assessment of viable spermatozoa using pentoxifylline and using an HOS test from a population of nonmotile spermatozoa obtained from testicular biopsies. Comparison of fertilization, cleavage, and clinical pregnancy rates using viable sperms recovered using pentoxifylline and an HOS test. Viable spermatozoa were obtained in both the study groups. Significantly higher fertilization rates (pentoxifylline 62.05% vs. HOS 41.07%) and clinical pregnancy rates (pentoxifylline 32% vs. HOS 16%) were observed. There was no significant difference in cleavage rates among both groups. We found that obtaining viable spermatozoa using pentoxifylline was more effective in terms of fertilization and pregnancies than obtaining it through an HOS test.