Sexual dysfunction after pelvic surgery.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Gynecology
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Pelvic surgeries are a leading cause of iatrogenic sexual dysfunction.
• While nerve-sparing techniques are studied in prostatectomy, their impact on sexual function in other pelvic surgeries requires further evaluation.
• Sexual dysfunction prevalence post-pelvic surgery ranges widely (8-82%) despite surgical advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the incidence and impact of sexual dysfunction following various pelvic surgeries.
• To discuss current and emerging management strategies for male and female sexual dysfunction.
• To highlight the need for standardized evaluation of female sexual dysfunction post-pelvic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on sexual dysfunction after pelvic surgeries.
• Analysis of treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED) and female sexual dysfunction (FSD).
• Examination of the role of early rehabilitation in managing post-surgical sexual dysfunction.

Main Results:

• Sexual dysfunction is a common complication of pelvic surgeries, with varied prevalence.
• Oral phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are first-line for male ED.
• Treatment options for FSD are expanding, including hormonal and non-hormonal therapies.

Conclusions:

• Sexual dysfunction is a significant concern after pelvic surgery, necessitating comprehensive management.
• Early rehabilitation strategies show promise for improving outcomes in ED post-pelvic surgery.
• Further research is needed to adequately assess and treat FSD in this population.