Sexual potency in elderly men before and after prostatectomy.

Abstract

Review of sexual activity before and after prostatectomy was made of 102 patients treated in private practice. Some decline in sexual activity with advancing age was found, but a substantial number (67%) were potent preoperatively and 84% of these retained potency postoperatively, irrespective of surgical route for prostatectomy. A willing sexual partner was the most important factor in maintenance of sexual potency after prostatectomy. Physicians' interest in, and knowledge of, sexual function among prostatectomy candidates is urgently suggested.