I-Shen Huang

• Emerging Therapies, Diagnostics, and Technology in Male Reproductive Health
  Hyun Jun Park Korea (Republic of) Moderator The Evolutionary Role of Varicocelectomy in Andrology Varicocelectomy is among the most commonly performed surgical procedures in contemporary andrological practice. Historically, varicocele management focused primarily on alleviating symptomatic discomfort and addressing infertility characterized by impaired semen parameters. However, the conceptual framework and indications for varicocelectomy have evolved significantly over recent decades, reshaping its clinical implications and expanding its therapeutic potential. Initially, open surgical approaches such as retroperitoneal and inguinal varicocelectomy were predominant, yet they carried considerable risks, including recurrence, hydrocele formation, and potential damage to testicular arteries. With the advent of microsurgical techniques, particularly subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy, procedural efficacy and safety have markedly improved. This has resulted in reduced complication rates and enhanced fertility outcomes, positioning microsurgical varicocelectomy as the current gold standard. Modern andrological literature emphasizes varicocelectomy’s broader physiological benefits beyond fertility. Recent studies highlight its role in improving testosterone production, mitigating hypogonadism, and enhancing overall testicular function. Additionally, varicocelectomy has been demonstrated to significantly improve sperm DNA integrity and reduce oxidative stress levels, thus positively impacting assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Furthermore, contemporary research suggests that varicocelectomy may provide systemic health benefits by reducing chronic inflammation and oxidative damage, conditions associated with metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. This evolving understanding positions varicocelectomy not merely as a fertility treatment but as an integral part of comprehensive male reproductive health management. These insights prompt a proactive approach, encouraging clinicians to recognize varicocelectomy’s extended potential in enhancing male reproductive longevity and general health. In conclusion, the evolution of varicocelectomy, characterized by advancements in surgical techniques and expanded clinical indications, underscores its significant role in modern andrology. An integrated appreciation of its multifaceted therapeutic benefits facilitates informed clinical decision-making, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes in andrological practice.

  Chih-Wei TsaoTaiwan Moderator
• Recent Advances in Fertility Preservation for Young Male Cancer Survivors
  Hui-Ying LiuTaiwan Speaker Recent Advances in Fertility Preservation for Young Male Cancer SurvivorsTesticular cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in men of reproductive age and significantly impacts fertility through both direct tumor effects and subsequent gonadotoxic treatments. Tumor-related factors such as testicular parenchymal destruction, intratesticular obstruction, elevated β-HCG levels, oxidative stress, and disruption of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis contribute to impaired spermatogenesis and sperm DNA fragmentation. Cancer treatments including orchiectomy, chemotherapy (especially cisplatin-based regimens), retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, and radiotherapy further increase the risk of oligo- or azoospermia, with long-term recovery of spermatogenesis often taking up to 2–4 years. Despite these risks, less than one-third of patients undergo sperm cryopreservation before treatment, even though up to 50% present with abnormal semen parameters at diagnosis. Onco-TESE and electroejaculation serve as viable alternatives in select patients, while emerging evidence supports the use of testis-sparing strategies and real-time sperm retrieval in appropriate cases. Current data emphasize the necessity of early fertility counseling and preservation planning for all men diagnosed with TC. Given the high cure rate and young patient demographic, optimizing reproductive outcomes is a key component of survivorship care.
• Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS): New Insights and Therapeutic Approaches
  So InamuraJapan Speaker Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS): New Insights and Therapeutic Approaches Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a complex condition characterized by a combination of pelvic pain or discomfort and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), including both storage and voiding issues. The pathophysiology is multifaceted, often originating from prostatic inflammation which contributes to both LUTS and pelvic pain. The condition is frequently exacerbated by the involvement of neurogenic inflammation and central sensitization, which can cause pain to spread and amplify, creating a negative spiral of symptoms that significantly impairs patients' quality of life (QOL). This presentation reviews the current understanding of CP/CPPS pathophysiology and outlines therapeutic options. In general, treatment primarily relies on conventional drug therapies such as α1 blockers, anti-inflammatory agents, neuropathic medications, phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors), and phytotherapeutics. These treatments aim to manage symptoms by improving bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), suppressing inflammation, enhancing pelvic blood flow, and modulating pain signals. While various treatment options exist, their effectiveness varies significantly among individuals, underscoring the need for a patient and individualized approach to find a suitable regimen. Furthermore, emerging treatments such as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) have shown significant promise in improving pain and QOL and are recommended in international guidelines. In conclusion, effective management of CP/CPPS requires consideration of its complex mechanisms, including prostatic inflammation, neurogenic inflammation, and central sensitization. A patient, trial-and-error approach is essential to identify the most effective treatment for each individual.
• The Evolutionary Role of Varicocelectomy in Andrology
  Hyun Jun Park Korea (Republic of) Speaker The Evolutionary Role of Varicocelectomy in Andrology Varicocelectomy is among the most commonly performed surgical procedures in contemporary andrological practice. Historically, varicocele management focused primarily on alleviating symptomatic discomfort and addressing infertility characterized by impaired semen parameters. However, the conceptual framework and indications for varicocelectomy have evolved significantly over recent decades, reshaping its clinical implications and expanding its therapeutic potential. Initially, open surgical approaches such as retroperitoneal and inguinal varicocelectomy were predominant, yet they carried considerable risks, including recurrence, hydrocele formation, and potential damage to testicular arteries. With the advent of microsurgical techniques, particularly subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy, procedural efficacy and safety have markedly improved. This has resulted in reduced complication rates and enhanced fertility outcomes, positioning microsurgical varicocelectomy as the current gold standard. Modern andrological literature emphasizes varicocelectomy’s broader physiological benefits beyond fertility. Recent studies highlight its role in improving testosterone production, mitigating hypogonadism, and enhancing overall testicular function. Additionally, varicocelectomy has been demonstrated to significantly improve sperm DNA integrity and reduce oxidative stress levels, thus positively impacting assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Furthermore, contemporary research suggests that varicocelectomy may provide systemic health benefits by reducing chronic inflammation and oxidative damage, conditions associated with metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. This evolving understanding positions varicocelectomy not merely as a fertility treatment but as an integral part of comprehensive male reproductive health management. These insights prompt a proactive approach, encouraging clinicians to recognize varicocelectomy’s extended potential in enhancing male reproductive longevity and general health. In conclusion, the evolution of varicocelectomy, characterized by advancements in surgical techniques and expanded clinical indications, underscores its significant role in modern andrology. An integrated appreciation of its multifaceted therapeutic benefits facilitates informed clinical decision-making, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes in andrological practice.
• New Horizons in Clinical Predictors for Sperm Retrieval in Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Patients
  I-Shen HuangTaiwan Speaker New Horizons in Clinical Predictors for Sperm Retrieval in Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Patients
• DNA Fragmentation’s Impact on Male Infertility: Advanced molecular approaches in male infertility diagnosis
  Yu-Sheng ChengTaiwan Speaker DNA Fragmentation’s Impact on Male Infertility: Advanced molecular approaches in male infertility diagnosis Semen analysis remains the cornerstone to accessing male fertility potential despite many drawbacks and fails to predict the male fertility potential with high sensitivity and specificity. The integrity of sperm DNA is crucial for successful fertilization, embryo growth, and the precise transmission of genetic information to progeny. Increasing research suggests that higher sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) may correlate with clinical varicocele, unexplained infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and offspring health. Currently, several tests are available to assess sperm DNA fragmentation in clinical settings. The degree of sperm DNA damage can be measured using the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), which provides more insight into the quality of sperm. Recently, several laboratories have integrated SDF testing into routine semen analysis for the assessment of male infertility. Nonetheless, several aspects of SDF remain unresolved. This presentation will provide an introduction to existing SDF assays, including recent innovative tests for double-strand breaks (DSBs) in human ejaculated sperm, as well as a discussion on the clinical indications for SDF testing based on recent scientific findings.
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Male Infertility: Innovations in Diagnosis and Treatment Optimization
  Vincent FS TsaiTaiwan Speaker The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Male Infertility: Innovations in Diagnosis and Treatment Optimization Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the landscape of reproductive medicine by offering unprecedented precision, personalization, and predictive power. This presentation introduces some current AI-integrated fertility projects, designed to enhance outcomes across both pre- and post-fertilization stages. We begin with a brief overview of AI’s transformative role in healthcare, before delving into the scope. In the pre-fertilization phase, we leverage AI tools for semen analysis, enabling rapid and objective assessment of sperm quality---a home semen test. Advanced image recognition aids in tissue classification, while robotic precision enhances microsurgical interventions. Additionally, machine learning algorithms provide nuanced risk prediction to support clinical decision-making. Post-fertilization, some systems apply AI-driven models for embryo selection and manipulation, optimizing implantation potential. Predictive analytics further extend to embryonic development, offering clinicians early insights that support successful pregnancies. Together, these innovations illustrate how AI can augment every stage of the fertility journey—offering not only efficiency but also a hopeful future for prospective parents.