Beyond incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of sexual dysfunction after anal fistula surgery.

J Gastrointest SurgJul 2, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchGeneral SurgeryGastroenterology

Pankaj Garg, G Mahak, Prema Ram Choudhary et al.

✦ AI-curated · Sources linked

In 30 seconds

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of anal fistula surgery on sexual function, revealing significant sex differences. Among 18 studies, male sexual function improved significantly post-surgery (P <.001), while female sexual function showed negligible improvement or deterioration, particularly with seton placement (P =.02).

Key findings

  • Definitive surgical cure significantly improved male sexual function as measured by IIEF (P <.001).
  • Female sexual function, assessed by FSFI, showed negligible improvement or deterioration post-surgery.
  • Seton placement was associated with significant impairment in female sexual function (P =.02).
  • 79% of patients reported not receiving preoperative sexual counseling.

Why it matters

Understanding the sexual dysfunction associated with anal fistula surgery is crucial for improving patient care. This highlights the need for comprehensive preoperative counseling to address potential sexual health impacts, which are often overlooked in surgical practice.

Source

PubMed · PMID 42392439

Published in J Gastrointest Surg. This summary was written by xxcode from the publication's abstract and metadata. It is not peer reviewed and is not a substitute for the original article. For clinical decisions, review the original publication.

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AI-generated summaries may contain errors or omissions. Verify clinically important information with the original publication.

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