A machine learning algorithm to predict the success of a second microsurgical testicular sperm extraction.

INTRODUCTION

Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) is a common procedure for retrieving sperm in men with azoospermia. However, the success rates of a second TESE following an initial unsuccessful attempt remain low. This study aims to develop and evaluate a machine learning algorithm to predict the success of a second microsurgical TESE (microTESE).

METHODS

Medical records of 47 patients who underwent a second microTESE were analyzed. The dataset included variables such as procedure side, histopathology, preoperative Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone levels, testicular volume, and comorbidities. Supervised machine learning algorithms, including support vector machine (SVM), were employed to predict the success of the second microTESE. The dataset was split into training (80%) and testing (20%) sets.

RESULTS

The SVM model achieved an accuracy of 80% after hyperparameter tuning. Bilateral procedures and longer intervals between surgeries were associated with higher success rates, while a history of cancer correlated with negative outcomes. FSH and testosterone levels were also identified as predictive factors. The SVM model's feature importance analysis highlighted histopathology, varicocele, hormone levels, and the interval between procedures as highly correlated with the success of a second microTESE.

DISCUSSION

The machine learning model accurately predicted the presence or absence of spermatozoa in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia undergoing a second microTESE. The findings are consistent with previous studies and provide valuable insights into the predictive factors for the success of a second microTESE. However, the study's limitations include selection bias and reliance on retrospective data.

CONCLUSION

The SVM model shows promise in predicting the success of a second microTESE by incorporating factors such as age, hormonal levels, testicular volume, and genetic evaluation. Further validation and refinement are needed to ensure the model's accuracy and applicability across different populations.