Quality of life after partial penectomy for penile carcinoma.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the impact of partial penectomy on the quality of life of patients with carcinoma of the penis.

METHODS

Fourteen patients who had undergone partial penectomy for penile cancer were studied. Their median age was 50.5 years and the median time of follow-up was 11.5 months. The quality of life was evaluated in three dimensions: social adjustment, sexuality, and emotional state. The patients underwent a semistructured interview and were asked to complete the Overall Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, the Social Problem Questionnaire, the General Health Questionnaire, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

RESULTS

In 9 (64%) patients, the overall sexual function was normal or slightly decreased. Only 2 (14%) men had precarious or absent sexual function. The masculine self-image and the relationship with their partners remained practically unchanged in all the patients. Sexual interest and satisfaction remained normal or slightly reduced in 9 and 12 patients, respectively. The frequency of sexual intercourse was unchanged or slightly decreased in 9 patients. Three patients had no sexual intercourse after surgery. No significant levels of anxiety and depression were found. Within the areas of living conditions, family life, and interactions with other people, all the patients remained as they were before the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who undergo partial penectomy for penile cancer can maintain the quality of life (in social, psychological, and sexual terms) at levels similar to those that existed in the period before surgery.