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International Journal of Colorectal Disease

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Open Access 01-12-2008 | Original Article

Male sexual function and lower urinary tract symptoms after laparoscopic total mesorectal excision

Authors: S. O. Breukink, M. F. van Driel, J. P. E. N. Pierie, C. Dobbins, T. Wiggers, W. J. H. J. Meijerink

Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease | Issue 12/2008

Abstract

Background and aims

The aim of this study was to investigate sexual function and the presence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in male patients with rectal cancer following short-term radiotherapy and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LTME) by physical and psychological measurements.

Materials and methods

Sexual function and LUTS were assessed by the use of questionnaires [International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), International Prostate Symptom Score]. Sexual function was further assessed by the use of pharmaco duplex ultrasonography of the cavernous arterial blood flow and nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity monitoring (NPTR). All investigations were performed prior to the start of preoperative radiotherapy and 15 months after surgery.

Results

Nine patients (mean age 60 years) participated. Erectile function was maintained in 71% and ejaculation function in 89%. Compared with pre-operative scores on the IIEF, a significant deterioration in intercourse satisfaction was seen following radiotherapy and LTME (7.9 vs 10.3, p = 0.042), but overall satisfaction remained unchanged (8.0 vs 7.0, p = 0.246). NPTR parameters (duration of erectile episodes, duration of tip rigidity ≥60%) decreased following radiotherapy and LTME. Patients reported a deterioration in micturition frequency (2.0 vs 1.0, p = 0.034) and quality of life due to urinary symptoms (8.0 vs 1.8, p = 0.018).

Conclusion

Based on these first preliminary findings, data suggest that 15 months after short-term radiotherapy and LTME in men with rectal cancer, objectively assessed sexual dysfunction was considerable, but overall sexual satisfaction had not changed.

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Title: Male sexual function and lower urinary tract symptoms after laparoscopic total mesorectal excision
Authors: S. O. Breukink
M. F. van Driel
J. P. E. N. Pierie
C. Dobbins
T. Wiggers
W. J. H. J. Meijerink
Publication date: 01-12-2008
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease / Issue 12/2008
Print ISSN: 0179-1958
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1262
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-008-0547-4

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Male sexual function and lower urinary tract symptoms after laparoscopic total mesorectal excision

Abstract

Background and aims

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background and aims

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

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