An Anatomical Explanation for Bladder Dysfunction Following Rectal and Uterine Surgery

Abstract

Summary— Previous published reports have shown that bladder dysfunction is a common sequel of abdomino‐perineal resection of the rectum but an uncommon sequel of hysterectomy. This study describes the anatomy of the pelvic parasympathetic nerves and the pelvic plexus in relation to the rectum and uterus with particular attention to their vulnerability during these 2 surgical procedures. Two anatomical features are proposed to account for the vulnerability of these nerves during rectal operations. Damage during the course of a hysterectomy is unlikely unless the procedure is unusually radical.