Factors associated with sexual dysfunction following transurethral resection of the prostate

A retrospective analysis of 62 consecutive potent patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate is described. Each patient was interviewed a minimum of six months following surgery. Potency was retained in 89% of patients but 57% of these experienced a decrease from their preoperative level of function. Three factors were found to be significantly associated with a reduction in postoperative potency. These were systemic disease (p less than 0.001), small prostatic resections (p less than 0.001) and a reduced level of potency preoperatively (p less than 0.01). Of those men retaining a degree of potency, 90% achieved their first erection within two months of the procedure. The full extent of sexual dysfunction following transurethral resection of the prostate has not previously been appreciated, nor have the factors associated with this dysfunction.