Prospective study of sexual function and analysis of risk factors after rectal cancer surgery.

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the evolution of sexual function over time after rectal cancer surgery and to identify risk factors that may have an impact on the deterioration of postoperative function.

Method: This was a prospective cohort study of sexual function after rectal cancer surgery using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months after surgery. Predictive factors of worsening were identified by univariate and multivariate analysis.