[Sexual disorders after an operation for benign prostatic hypertrophy].

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Sexual Medicine

Context:

• Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) affects a significant number of aging men.
• Surgical interventions like prostatectomy are common treatments for BPH.
• Understanding the impact of these surgeries on sexual function is crucial for patient counseling.

Purpose:

• To prospectively evaluate the effects of transurethral and transvesical prostatectomy on male sexual function.
• To assess changes in intercourse frequency, erectile function, ejaculation, orgasm, and overall sexual satisfaction post-surgery.

Summary:

• A prospective study followed 70 patients (48 transurethral, 22 transvesical prostatectomy) for benign prostatic hypertrophy.
• Sexual activity levels remained largely unchanged for previously active patients; erectile function was generally maintained.
• Retrograde ejaculation occurred in 69% of patients. Orgasm was preserved in most, but 25 found it altered. Post-operative sexual satisfaction was reduced in some patients and their partners.

Impact:

• Provides insights into the sexual side effects of different prostatectomy techniques for BPH.
• Informs urologists and patients about potential outcomes, aiding in informed consent and management.
• Highlights the high incidence of retrograde ejaculation and its implications for fertility and satisfaction.