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Urology (Expert Forum)
Ejaculatory Dysfunction following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.
Ejaculatory Dysfunction following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection
by Blane-Bujalski, Jul 18, 1998 12:00AM
In 1989 I was diagnosed and treated for testicular cancer. Following the chemotherapy, I underwent a retroperitoneal lymph node dissection to insure that no malignancy remained in my abdomen. The only after effect of this procedure that I have is an inability to ejaculate when I reach orgasm. All other sexual function is normal. I have researched this on the Internet and understand that it is a fairly common side effect of this procedure. The only thing I haven't found in researching this is any reference to treatment of this condition. I'd like to know what treatments are available, if any. I can live with it, but both my wife and I find sex less satisfying without the release of ejaculation. Any information that can be provided would be appreciated.
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Dear Blane,
Loss of seminal emission and ejaculation after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection is a well established side effect that has decreased substantially since nerve sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissections are being performed. However, despite whatever precautions the urologist may take to preserve the sympathetic nerves which run through the area where the lymph nodes are being resected, there is always the possibility that loss of emission and ejaculation may occur. As you know, one is still able to achieve orgasm, but without the associated ejaculation. Although an artificial ejaculation can be induced via techniques of electro-ejaculation for purposes of semen collection for pregnancy, I am not aware of any treatment options that would offer relief of this specific problem. Wish you the best,
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653 6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-JJ
*Keyword: ejaculation, RPLND
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Dear Blane,
Loss of seminal emission and ejaculation after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection is a well established side effect that has decreased substantially since nerve sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissections are being performed. However, despite whatever precautions the urologist may take to preserve the sympathetic nerves which run through the area where the lymph nodes are being resected, there is always the possibility that loss of emission and ejaculation may occur. As you know, one is still able to achieve orgasm, but without the associated ejaculation. Although an artificial ejaculation can be induced via techniques of electro-ejaculation for purposes of semen collection for pregnancy, I am not aware of any treatment options that would offer relief of this specific problem. Wish you the best,
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653 6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-JJ
*Keyword: ejaculation, RPLND
