Prevalence of erectile dysfunction in vascular surgery patients.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is frequently associated with cardiovascular disease. Epidemiological data on the frequency of ED in vascular surgery patients is rarely reported. We evaluated the prevalence of this comorbidity in patients consulting the vascular surgery outpatient clinic. Over a 6-month period, a short version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire consisting of six ED-relevant questions was handed out to 440 vascular surgery outpatients. Clinical data were collected from patients' records. Linear regression models with forward selection were used to investigate associations between erectile function score and possible risk factors. The return rate was 31% (137 patients). Eight patients (6%) were taking phosphodiesterase inhibitors. ED, as defined by an erectile function score of 25 or less and/or use of phosphodiesterase inhibitors, was found in 90% (95% CI: 84% to 95%) of cases. Moderate or severe ED, as defined by an erectile function score of 16 or less and/or use of phosphodiesterase inhibitors, was found in 70% (95% CI: 62% to 78%) of cases. Increased age, abdominal aortic aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease, urologic disease, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and use of beta-blockers were significantly associated with a lower erectile function score. In conclusion, erectile dysfunction is a frequent and often missed comorbidity in vascular surgery patients. While ED may have a profound impact on the patient's quality of life, attention should also be paid to the patient's preoperative sexual function, considering the availability of oral pharmacotherapies and possible consequences concerning liability in postoperative patients in whom pre-existing ED was not identified properly.
Falkensammer
Juergen
J
Section of Vascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
Hakaim
Albert G
AG
Falkensammer
Claudia E
CE
Broderick
Gregory A
GA
Crook
Julia E
JE
Heckman
Michael G
MG
Oldenburg
W Andrew
WA
Hugl
Beate
B
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000601:surgery; D015897:Comorbidity; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D016014:Linear Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*