A simple technique for identification and preservation of the hypogastric nerves during rectal surgery.
OBJECTIVE
Rectal resection is associated with a risk of sexual dysfunction even when performed for benign disease, with the most frequent type resulting in retrograde ejaculation due to injury to the hypogastric nerves.


METHODS
A simple technique to identify and protect these nerves during rectal mobilization.


METHODS
Exposure of the hypogastric plexus during rectal resection.


CONCLUSIONS
Careful identification of the hypogastric nerves during rectal mobilization using the described technique may reduce injury to these nerves and related sexual dysfunction.
Morpurgo
Emilio
E
Department of Surgery, Hospital of Camposampiero (Padova), Italy.
Hall
Monica Combs
MC
Galandiuk
Susan
S
D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007001:Hypogastric Plexus / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D012007:Rectum / Q000601:surgery*