Sexual function before and after mesh repair of inguinal hernia

Abstract

Aim: Several factors having an influence on the quality of life after an inguinal hernia repair have been studied, yet little has been reported on sexual function before and after this operation. Methods:In a prospective follow-up study from January 1999 to July 2002, 210 men and 14 women were asked to answer an anonymous questionnaire of 40 questions before elective inguinal hernia repair to assess pre-and postoperative sexual function (preoperatively, 3 months postoperatively and every 6 months afterwards). Inguinal hernia repair was performed using a standardized Plug and Patch mesh technique.Results: Fifty-two (23.2%) patients mentioned preoperative sexual dysfunction related to the groin hernia. Postoperatively, the surgical repair had a positive influence on the sexual function in these patients. Thirty-six (16%) patients complained of postoperative sexual dysfunctions, which improved or disappeared over the next few months. All patients suffered surgical complications, which were surgically treated in six cases. Symptoms specifically associated with inguinal hernias can cause certain limitations in the sexual life. Conclusions:In most cases, and in the absence of postoperative complications, the operative repair can lead to a recovery of the sexual life in patients with preoperative sexual dysfunction, while, in most cases, it does not affect patients with a preoperative normal sexual life.

Impairment of sexual activity before and after endoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia repair

“…Improved sexual function (although not studied in relation to pain) has been observed by others too. Ertan et al [4] and El-Awady and Elkholy [5] reported a significant recovery of sexual function 3 months after open anterior mesh repair, with 85% of patients improving their IIEF scores [4], while Zieren et al [2] observed a decline of ''potency or orgasm disorders'' after Plug and Patch repair from 23.2 to 16.1% postoperatively.…”

“…The observed incidences are higher than those recently reported by Aasvang et al [16], who found that 12% of the patients who had painful sex preoperatively, with a substantial associated impairment of sexual function in 2.3% of the patients. In another study, Zieren et al [2] observed sexual disorders (erectile dysfunction and/or orgasm problems) in 23% of patients with inguinal hernias. Thus, sexual activity, as a quality-of-life parameter, appears to be greatly affected by the presence of an inguinal hernia.…”

“…The preoperative presence of painful sexual activity or other chronic pain was predictive of postoperative complaints. Few studies have dealt with sexual function after inguinal hernia repair, merely focusing on general sexual function (such as erectile disorders) [2,5,9] and not so much on pain during sexual activity and pain-related impairment of sexual function [6,7].To our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluates the incidence of painful sexual activity and impairment of sexual function before and after endoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia repair.…”

“…The studies regarding quality of sexual function after inguinal hernia repair are scarce and were conducted on patients who underwent open hernia repair [2,6,9]. A relationship between the presence of pain and an adverse effect on sexual function is conceivable.…”

“…In particular, time to full recovery and chronic postoperative pain have been addressed [1,2]. Recent reports indicate that improvement of QoL-related issues is the main reason why patients undergo elective inguinal hernia repair [3].…”