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International Journal of Colorectal Disease

Published in:

01-12-2011 | Original Article

Male sexual dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery

Authors: Yuji Nishizawa, Masaaki Ito, Norio Saito, Takanori Suzuki, Masanori Sugito, Toshiyuki Tanaka

Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease | Issue 12/2011

Abstract

Purpose

The aims of the study were to determine the extent of male sexual dysfunction after surgical treatment of rectal cancer and to examine the outcome of postoperative treatment with sildenafil.

Methods

A prospective study was performed in patients who underwent attempted curative total mesorectal excision (TME) for low rectal cancers. Sexual function scores were determined by questionnaire preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Outcomes were examined in patients who were sexually active preoperatively.

Results

From 2000 to 2007, 207 patients underwent TME at our institution, of whom 49 (24%) were sexually active preoperatively. Erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory problems were present in 80% and 82%, respectively of the 49 patients at 3 months postoperatively, and in 76% and 67%, respectively at 12 months. Lateral lymph node dissection was a strong risk factor for postoperative sexual dysfunction. The impotency rate was 37% and 47% of patients were unable to ejaculate. Sildenafil was administered to 16 patients who requested the drug during follow-up, and sexual dysfunction was improved in 11 of these patients (69%).

Conclusion

Sexual dysfunction occurs frequently after rectal cancer treatment and is mainly caused by surgical damage in lateral lymph node dissection. Sildenafil may be effective for the treatment of sexual dysfunction.

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Title: Male sexual dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Yuji Nishizawa
Masaaki Ito
Norio Saito
Takanori Suzuki
Masanori Sugito
Toshiyuki Tanaka
Publication date: 01-12-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease / Issue 12/2011
Print ISSN: 0179-1958
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1262
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-011-1247-z

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Male sexual dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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