Instead, newer methods are endorsed, such as fixation with glutaraldehyde, embedding in plastic, and the use of high-resolution microscopy techniques. Percutaneous testis biopsy is another procedure that may be used to obtain a tissue sample from the testis. Because of this, there is a risk of unintentional injury to either the epididymis or testicular artery. In addition, some specialists criticize the quality of percutaneous biopsy samples. Therefore, many physicians do not recommend percutaneous biopsy for testis sampling.
Testicular aspiration causes minimal injury to the testes.
However, some physicians believe that uniform standards have not been developed to accurately interpret the results of aspirated biopsy samples. Maturation arrest - stopping of sperm development. This is a common biopsy result. Unfortunately, maturation arrest in a patient with a high FSH level usually signals severe, untreatable testicular damage. Causes of germ-cell aplasia include exposure to toxins, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, although most cases are caused by unknown factors.