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Female sex function after aortic surgery
W B Campbell1, B M Ridler, C McGrath
1Department of Surgery, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, UK.
Cardiovascular Surgery (London, England)
|June 4, 1998
Summary
This study investigated sexual dysfunction in women post-abdominal aortic surgery. Due to patient age and reluctance to discuss sexual health, definitive conclusions on adverse effects were not reached.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Sexual Health
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
Background:
- Abdominal aortic surgery can impact various aspects of patient well-being.
- The long-term effects of abdominal aortic surgery on female sexual function remain under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of sexual dysfunction in women following abdominal aortic surgery.
- To assess the potential impact of aortic graft procedures on female sexual health.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based study involving 100 women who underwent aortic grafts between 1990-1994.
- Patients were approached at least 1 year post-operation; detailed questionnaires were sent to willing participants.
Main Results:
- High patient ineligibility (69/100) due to mortality, bereavement, or illness.
- Only 8 of 31 eligible patients agreed to detailed questionnaires; 7 responded.
- Of responders, 4 maintained good sexual function, 3 experienced deterioration, with some improvement noted in 2 over time.
Conclusions:
- Assessing sexual dysfunction post-abdominal aortic surgery in women is challenging.
- Patient demographics, circumstances, and reluctance to discuss sexual function pose significant barriers.
- While no clear adverse effects were proven, the study highlights the importance of this neglected area.