Sexual function following elective endovascular surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm

To investigate the perceived sexual function of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm before elective endovascular treatment, and to compare it with the perceived sexual function one year after treatment.

Descriptive quantitative study. Data were collected as part of a sub-study within a prospective open-label single-centre randomized clinical trial, using the Male Sexual Function-4 questionnaire and three additional items specific to contextual aspects. For female participants, two of the items in the Male Sexual Function-4 questionnaire specifically related to male sexual anatomy and physiology were replaced by two items specifically related to female sexual anatomy and physiology. Descriptive statistics and Friedmans test were used, results were reported according to the CONSORT guidelines.

Of the enrolled male patients, 88% did not receive any information from their caregiver at baseline regarding the potential risk of experiencing procedure-related changes in their sexual function and desired more information from their caregiver. On average, male patients reported a significant decrease in both their sexual interest and in achieving ejaculation during sexual activities (p = .036) while simultaneously reporting significant improvement in global sexual health 12 months postoperatively compared with baseline (p = .003). After surgery, the proportion of female patients reporting an interest in sex was low (12.5%), and a low proportion (12.5%) of female patients also reported a preserved ability to achieve orgasm compared to baseline (37.5%).

The results indicated a procedure-related impact on sexual health and function among patients undergoing elective endovascular aortic repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm, a risk most patients reported not being informed of. The results suggest a lack of patient education that should be addressed, and a need for better clinician communication to ensure informed consent.