Sexual function in males following abdomino-perineal resection in Nigeria

Twenty-six male patients who had abdomino-perineal resection for ano-rectal carcinoma between 1980 and 1988 were interviewed during their follow-up visits. Emphasis was on their sexual function. The age range was between 19 to 40 years with a mean of 27 years. Eight patients (31 pc) had complete loss of sexual function. Eighteen patients (69 pc) had complete or partial sexual function. 15 patients (57 pc) had normal sexual function. Compared to what obtains in developed countries, cancer of the ano-rectum is relatively commoner in the young in our region. A good proportion of these will develop impaired sexual function after abdomino-perineal resection. It is important that this probable complication be discussed fully with the patient before the operation, since the loss of sexual function in a young male is a major form of morbidity in this sub-region.