Incidence of sexual dysfunction in male patients treated surgically for rectal malignancy.

Sixty male patients surgically treated for colorectal cancer were interviewed by structured questionnaire to evaluate the etiology of sexual dysfunction and quality of life. Patients were divided into three groups: 20 who underwent low anterior resection, 20 subjected to Miles' abdominoperineal amputation, and 20 who underwent high anterior resection. Statistical evaluation of the three groups, by use of the chi-square test and Student's t test, showed that extent of the surgical dissection plays the most important role, although psychologic problems are also involved.