A study on sexual function of men with anterior urethral stricture before and after treatment

Male urethral reconstruction for anterior urethral stricture has become increasingly popular and effective. Little is known about its potential impact on subsequent sexual performance.

Thirty-four patients of anterior urethral stricture disease were studied from January 2008 to November 2009. The data were collected before surgery and at a follow-up of 3 months after completing the treatment. Evaluation of sexual function was done using O'Leary's Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory.

Patients were divided into two categories: <40 and >40 years of age. Younger patients had more improvement in ejaculatory function and overall satisfaction after surgery than elderly. Elderly males had lower sexual drive scores. Patients with traumatic stricture had significant improvement in ejaculation and overall satisfaction. Patients without history of prior optical internal urethrotomy or dilatations reported a significant improvement in their ejaculatory function and overall satisfaction.

Erectile dysfunction is not significant after anterior urethral reconstruction. The improvement is most pronounced in ejaculation and overall satisfaction, which was mostly appreciated by younger men. A successful urethral reconstructive procedure leads to rehabilitation of the patient back into a healthy sexual life. Dorsomedial dissection of bulbar urethra should be limited and cautery use should be minimized in that area.