Sexual complications of minimally invasive surgical therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease process involved in aging, which can have a substantial impact on quality of life. Recently, there has been an increased focus on the correlation of lower urinary tract symptoms from BPH with sexual dysfunction. Multiple studies have implicated these symptoms as a risk factor for erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction, and decreased libido. Invasive surgical prostate therapies also have been associated with erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction. Minimally invasive surgical therapies have been developed not only to alleviate symptoms that affect quality of life but also to reduce complications associated with standard surgical therapy, including adverse effects on sexual function. With the increased emphasis placed on sexual function and the greater level of concern expressed by patients, it is necessary to evaluate treatment modalities for their effect on erectile and ejaculatory function. This review focuses on the sexual outcomes of minimally invasive prostate therapies, especially with regards to erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction, and the impact of these therapies on quality of life.