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A simple technique for identification and preservation of the hypogastric nerves during rectal surgery
Emilio Morpurgo1, Monica Combs Hall, Susan Galandiuk
1Department of Surgery, Hospital of Camposampiero (Padova), Italy.
Hypothesis:
Rectal resection is associated with a risk of sexual dysfunction even when performed for benign disease, with the most frequent type resulting in retrograde ejaculation due to injury to the hypogastric nerves.
Design:
A simple technique to identify and protect these nerves during rectal mobilization.
Setting:
Exposure of the hypogastric plexus during rectal resection.
Conclusion:
Careful identification of the hypogastric nerves during rectal mobilization using the described technique may reduce injury to these nerves and related sexual dysfunction.
