IMPACT OF SURGICAL TREATMENT ON SEXUAL FUNCTION IN RECTAL CANCER

Introduction: The development of new surgical techniques and medical devices, like therapeutical multimodal approaches has allowed for better outcomes on patients with rectal cancer. Owing to that, an increased awareness and investment towards better outcomes regarding patients sexual and urinary function has been recently observed.

Objective: Evaluate and characterize the sexual dysfunction of patients submitted to surgical treatment for rectal cancer.

Materials and Methods: An observational retrospective study including all male patients who underwent a surgical treatment for rectal cancer between January 2015 to December 2019. A total of 113 patients were included in the study. All patients were underwent major surgery for rectal cancer. An inquiry questionnaire presented to every patient about its sexual habits and level of function before and after surgery.

Results: All patients included in the study were males. Patient age range between 40-75 years with mean age of 57 years. Surgical procedure was rectum anterior resection (RAR) in 62(54.8%) patients and an abdominoperineal resection (APR) in 51(45.1%). 71(62.8%) patients described their sexual life as important/very important. Sexual function worsening was observed in 83 (73.4%) patients with complains of erectile dysfunction and ejaculation impairment. 30 (26.5%) patients didnt resume sexual activity after surgery. Increased age (p=0.06), surgery performed (APR) (p=0.04) and the presence of a stoma (p=0.04) were predictors of erectile dysfunction after surgery.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated the clear negative impact in sexual function of patients submitted to a surgical treatment for rectal cancer. Since it is a valued feature for patients, it becomes essential to correctly evaluate/identify these cases in order to offer an adequate therapeutical option.