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Published on: November 14, 2020
Effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on male reproductive function in Chinese men with obesity: a prospective
Xiang Gao1, Pengzhou Li, Guohui Wang
1Department of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.
Background:
Obesity is a widely recognized global public health issue, and bariatric surgery has emerged as an effective intervention for alleviating obesity associated health complications. However, the impact of bariatric surgery on male reproductive function remains inconclusive in the literature. The current understanding of the impact of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on male reproductive function remains ambiguous, despite its status as the most commonly performed bariatric surgery. This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the impact of LSG on erectile function and semen quality.
Patients And Methods:
A total of 34 obese patients were enrolled in this study and underwent LSG. Prior to the operation and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperation, all participants were required to complete the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire and undergo a nocturnal erectile function test and semen quality analysis.
Results:
Within 12 months postoperation, BMI, blood lipids, and insulin resistance showed significant improvement. The IIEF-5 score increased significantly (18.88±5.97 vs. 23.78±3.19, P <0.05), and the frequency and duration of erections significantly improved compared to baseline. Sperm concentration, total motility, survival rate, and sperm morphology parameters exhibited a significant decline at 3 months but demonstrated a significant improvement at 6 and 12 months postoperation. At 12 months, sperm concentration was shown to be correlated with changes in zinc (r=0.25, P =0.033) as well as changes in testosterone (r=0.43, P =0.013).
Conclusions:
LSG has beneficial effects on erectile function, despite a transient decline in semen quality at 3 months postoperatively, followed by a significant improvement at 12 months.
Insights
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) improves erectile function in obese men. While semen quality temporarily declines, it significantly improves within 12 months after LSG surgery.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Bariatric Surgery Outcomes
- Male Reproductive Health
Background:
- Obesity is a global health concern linked to various complications.
- Bariatric surgery effectively manages obesity-related health issues.
- The effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on male reproductive function requires further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of LSG on male erectile function.
- To assess changes in semen quality following LSG.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study involving 34 obese patients undergoing LSG.
- Assessment of erectile function using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire.
- Evaluation of nocturnal erectile function and semen quality at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months post-LSG.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in BMI, blood lipids, and insulin resistance were observed within 12 months.
- Erectile function, measured by IIEF-5 scores and erection parameters, significantly improved post-LSG.
- Semen quality parameters, including sperm concentration and motility, showed a transient decline at 3 months but significant improvement by 12 months, correlating with zinc and testosterone levels.
Conclusions:
- LSG positively impacts male erectile function.
- LSG leads to a temporary decrease in semen quality, followed by substantial recovery and improvement at 12 months.
- LSG is a viable option for obese men seeking to improve reproductive health alongside weight management.
