Association between preoperative serum testosterone levels and the risk of postoperative erectile function after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

The predictive value of preoperative testosterone levels for erectile function (ED) preservation after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy (NSRP) remains controversial, with conflicting evidence regarding its clinical utility for surgical planning and patient counseling.

METHODS

Comprehensive searches of MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Embase were conducted through May 1, 2025. Observational studies reporting adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for postoperative ED stratified by preoperative testosterone levels were included. Random-effects models were used for meta-analysis, with subgroup analyses by study design and surgical approach. Outcomes included postoperative erectile function status assessed via validated questionnaires or clinical evaluations at ≥ 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Four cohort studies involving 2,312 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled analysis demonstrated significantly increased ED risk with lower preoperative testosterone levels (OR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.26-2.35; P = 0.001; I = 74.2%). Consistent associations emerged across subgroups: retrospective studies (OR = 2.20, 1.25-3.87), prospective studies (OR = 1.33, 1.29-1.38), laparoscopic procedures (OR = 1.55, 1.17-2.06), and robot-assisted approaches (OR = 3.02, 1.41-6.46).

CONCLUSION

Current evidence demonstrates that low preoperative serum testosterone levels significantly increase the risk of ED following NSRP. Furthermore, preoperative testosterone assessment enables urologists to implement standardized postoperative management protocols, including targeted rehabilitation strategies and optimized follow-up schedules for high-risk patients.