Patients who undergo total nephrectomy are more likely to suffer erectile dysfunction

Patients who undergo total nephrectomy – complete kidney removal – are more likely to suffer erectile dysfunction, according to new research out of the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine. 

The study, published online in the British Journal of Urology International, found men who had a cancerous kidney removed were more than three times more likely to develop erectile dysfunction than who had kidney reconstruction. 

“This is the first study in medical literature to suggest that surgery for kidney removal can negatively impact erectile function while partial kidney removal can protect sexual function," said Dr. Ithaar Derweesh, a urologic surgeon at UC San Diego Health System.

The study evaluated two groups of kidney cancer patients, totaling 432 patients, who underwent surgery. One group had complete removal of the kidney while the other had kidney-sparing surgery. Sexual function was assessed before and after the procedures. 

"What we are seeing is a dramatic yet delayed effect,” said Derweesh. “Approximately six years after surgery, patients who had a total nephrectomy were 3.5 times more likely to develop erectile dysfunction compared to those who had kidney reconstruction."

Derweesh noted previous studies have found that kidney-sparing surgery can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and chronic kidney problems, which can lead to heart and metabolic disturbances.